JCOMM MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
EIGHTH SESSION
Paris, France, 16-19 November 2010
FINAL REPORT
JCOMM Meeting Report No. 83
INTERGOVERNMENTAL OCEANOGRAPHIC
COMMISSION (OF UNESCO)
___________
WORLD METEOROLOGICAL ORGANIZATION
_____________
JCOMM MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
EIGHTH SESSION
Paris, France, 16-19 November 2010
FINAL REPORT
JCOMM Meeting Report No. 83
NOTES
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_______________
CONTENTS
General Summary of the Work of the Session ............................................................................. 1
Annex I – List of Participants.................................................................................................... 20
Annex II – Agenda ................................................................................................................... 23
Annex III – Status of JCOMM Workplan 2010-2013 ................................................................. 24
Annex IV – Revised JCOMM Terms of Reference (ToRs)......................................................... 33
Annex V – Proposed Terms of Reference for a JCOMM cross-cutting Task Team on Satellite Data
Requirement ............................................................................................................ 34
Annex VI – Formal Process for Adopting Regional Marine Instrumentation Centres (RMICs) ... 35
Annex VII – List of Actions ........................................................................................................ 37
Annex VIII – Acronyms and Other Abbreviations....................................................................... 40
GENERAL SUMMARY OF THE WORK OF THE SESSION
1.
OPENING OF THE SESSION
1.1.
Opening
1.1.1.
The eighth session of the Management Committee of the Joint WMO-IOC Technical
Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM) was opened by the
Commission Co-Presidents, Drs Peter Dexter and Alexander Frolov, at 0930 hrs on Tuesday, 16
November 2010, in the Conference Room XV of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic
Commission of UNESCO, Paris, France. The Co-Presidents welcomed participants to the session,
and introduced the Deputy Executive Secretary of IOC, Dr Ehrlich Desa, to address the session.
1.1.2.
Dr Ehrlich Desa welcomed participants in the JCOMM Management Committee session
to the IOC of UNESCO. Dr Desa noted the continued strong interest of the IOC in the work of the
Commission and the importance that is attached to Management Committee itself. He then noted
that JCOMM should continue to collaborate with other related bodies and programmes in order to
achieve its goals within the limited resources available, in particular, addressing the gaps in global
marine observations and products and services. In doing so, Dr. Desa emphasized the critical
importance of a wide range of engagement by Members / Member States. He closed his remarks
by wishing participants a successful meeting.
1.1.3.
Drs Dexter and Frolov, in responding, noted that some emerging requirements such as
enhanced observations and services for the cryosphere may provide new opportunities for JCOMM
to identify new areas of priority and associated funding opportunities. In this context, the CoPresidents emphasized that the Committee should clearly identify JCOMM’s role in the prioritized
activities of the Organizations, and decide on the Commission’s associated strategies.
1.1.4.
The list of participants in the session is provided in Annex I to this report.
1.2.
Adoption of the agenda
1.2.1.
The Committee adopted its agenda for the session based on the provisional agenda that
had been prepared by the Secretariats. This agenda is provided in Annex II to this report. The CoPresidents noted that the agenda was very comprehensive, but that this was necessary in view of
the short intersessional period, and the consequent need to review progress in all aspects of the
Commission’s work. However, it was now important to keep all reporting to a minimum, focussing
on key strategic issues, and activities within the Programme Areas (PAs) where the views and/or
decisions of the Management Committee where required to facilitate progress.
1.3.
Working arrangements
1.3.1.
The Committee agreed its hours of work and other practical arrangements for the
session. It was agreed that breakout groups may be established in the course of the session, as
and when required, to deal with specific issues. The documentation was introduced by the
Secretariats.
2.
Reports by Co-Presidents and Secretariats
Reports by Co-Presidents
2.1.
The Committee noted with appreciation the report by the Co-Presidents of JCOMM, Dr
Peter Dexter and Dr Alexander Frolov, covering in particular their own work in support of the
Commission, the meetings of the Governing Bodies of WMO and IOC, some cross-cutting issues
not dealt with elsewhere, and other activities and developments likely to impact the Commission
during the current intersessional period. In the report, the Co-Presidents put particular stress on
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those issues which would require the attention of the Committee during the meeting, and also
underlined the importance of all Committee members contributing, both to the debates during the
meeting, and also directly to the implementation of specific work assignments during the remainder
of the intersessional period. They concluded by thanking the Secretariats for its support, noting that,
at the midway point of the current intersessional period, the Commission was in reasonably good
shape in implementing the prioritized work programme decided by JCOMM-III.
2.2.
Detailed discussion on some of the activities and issues noted by the Co-Presidents is
recorded under relevant agenda items in this report (items 3 to 6).
Reports by the Secretariats
2.3.
The Secretariats reported on activities undertaken during the year since JCOMM-III in
support of the implementation of the work plan of the Commission, as well as other activities in
both WMO and IOC in which JCOMM was involved. The report also covered significant events
planned during the current intersessional period. These past and planned events are listed at
http://www.jcomm.info/calendar.
2.4.
The Committee noted that, despite the continuing difficulties in providing regular budget
and human resources for the Commission’s work, a number of activities had been successfully
made through extrabudgetary contributions and in-kind support by Members / Member States. The
Secretariats also thanked Member States for their continued support for employment
(extrabudgetary posts for JCOMMOPS). The IOC Secretariat informed the Committee that
beginning in 2011, in addition to the overhead (10% of total amount) on such extrabudgetary
support, support to cover administrative staff support must be included together with any future
funding for employment due to the loss of administrative posts available to IOC Ocean
Observations and Services section.
2.5.
The Committee agreed that additional resources (financial and in-kind) would continuous
to be required to carry out the intersessional work plan until JCOMM-IV, and requested the
Secretariats to report on the available resources within the regular budget of the Organizations and
required extrabudgetary resources for the planned activities (Action: IOC and WMO Secretariats,
immediate).
2.6.
The Committee was then informed about several planned activities related to the
Commission’s work, including:
-
UN Atlas of the Oceans Technical Committee (TC) 8-9 November 2010 at FAO
headquarters in Rome;
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Oceans day at COP 16 (4, December 2010), and;
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Joint conference by WMO, IACS/IMO and “Extreme Seas” project in Geneva, tentatively
3 – 6 October 2011.
2.7.
The status of the Commission’s work plan (2010-2013), which was decided at JCOMMIII, was reviewed by the PA Coordinators, as reproduced in Annex III.
3.
Intersessional Activities, Plans, and Deliverables
3.1.
Programme Areas (PAs)
Observations Programme Area (OPA)
3.1.1.
Ms Candyce Clark, OPA Coordinator, presented activities and plans for OPA. She
began her report with a brief remembrance of two individuals who were active members of the
OPA and who had passed during the past month: Dr Peter Niiler, father of the Global Drifter
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Program; and Mr Robert Luke, VOS expert and organizer of the upcoming PMO workshop. Ms
Clark then described the OPA work plan and priorities for the intersessional period, briefly
summarized status and issues for each OCG network, and presented issues for MAN
consideration.
3.1.2.
The Committee endorsed the OceanObs’09 recommendation that completion and
sustainability of the initial ocean observing system for the implementation of GCOS remain the
priority of OCG teams (Decision), and noted the progress made both in the development of
metrics for the observing system, including the contribution of different in situ and satellite
platforms to each metric, and their reporting procedure. These metrics complemented the simpler
and widely-quoted metric of percentage completion of implementation goals. Implementation of the
initial ocean observing system had levelled out at 62% of initial targets. The Committee urged OCG
to keep under review the implementation goals for the networks, including an active cross-platform
discussion forum on new technologies, strategies for spatial coverage and deployment, and
standards and best practices. In reviewing/revising the OPA implementation goals, the Committee
recommended, among priority activities, that a better communication strategy should be defined
and documented with regard to the trends, regional gaps and impacts to Members / Member
States, with a view to address this issues to funders (including WMO and IOC Executive bodies)
(Action: OCG in coordination with other PA Coordination Groups, continuous).
3.1.3.
OceanObs’09 had called for the implementation and international coordination of
systematic
global
biogeochemical
and
biological
observations
(see
http://www.oceanobs09.net/statement/). The Committee noted that while many of these
observations would fall outside the present JCOMM mandate, there were nonetheless areas in
which JCOMM capabilities for coordination and monitoring observing systems could be
advantageous. A good example was the clear requirement to better co-ordinate the observation of
the global ocean carbon cycle, already under discussion and an area where the expertise that
resided within the OCG and JCOMMOPS could be brought to bear in a productive way. The
Committee therefore asked the OCG to be as proactive as possible in making progress in this area
(Action: OCG with JCOMMOPS support, continuous).
3.1.4.
The OCG and its teams representing observing networks raised concerns about
ensuring an adequate level of funding for sustaining the technical coordination work of
JCOMMOPS. The Committee re-emphasized the crucial importance of JCOMMOPS in facilitating
the implementation of global ocean observing networks, and undertook an active discussion on
strategies for the evolution of JCOMMOPS. The Committee endorsed OCG plans to produce a
JCOMMOPS strategy with an overall observing systems perspective and recommendations for
implementation of new functions (Decision).
Services and Forecasting Systems Programme Area (SFSPA)
3.1.5.
Dr Ming Ji, SFSPA Coordinator, reported on the SFSPA activities since JCOMM-III, and
introduced the work plans from present until JCOMM-IV in 2012.
3.1.6.
The SFSPA has been focusing on; (i) marine weather and sea ice safety information
services; (ii) establishing operational ocean forecasting capabilities, and; (iii) reducing risks of
weather and oceanographic hazards for coastal communities such as storm surges and inundation.
The SFSPA work plan for the current intersessional period (http://www.jcomm.info/SPAWP)
includes 24 priority projects which have been led by various expert teams. Major goals include;
(i)
expansion of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) to include five
new Arctic Ocean METAREAs, thus enabling provision of weather and sea ice safety
information services;
(ii)
advancing marine safety information for e-Navigation;
(iii)
developing a guide for operational ocean forecasting, and;
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(iv)
facilitating coastal storm surge and inundation forecasting capabilities in response to
increased risks of these natural hazards associated with global climate change.
3.1.7.
Dr. Ji identified several issues that required the Committee’s awareness and guidance.
The discussion by the Committee, with the decisions and recommendations, were as follows;
(i)
Ocean observational requirements for satellite agencies: The Committee noted that
there are two paths for providing observing requirements to satellite agencies. They are:
(i) the WMO Rolling Review of Requirements (RRR) through the JCOMM Statement of
Guidance (SoG) on ocean and marine services, and; (ii) the Global Climate Observing
System (GCOS) Implementation Plan and its interaction with the Committee on Earth
Observation Satellites (CEOS). The Committee requests the Expert Team on
Operational Ocean Forecast Systems (ETOOFS) to work toward a consolidated a set of
ocean observing requirements for ocean forecasting systems to address the gap in the
WMO database (Action: ETOOFS in coordination with TT on Satellite Data
Requirements, JCOMM-IV in 2012). The Committee considered that there was a broad
audience for these requirements including WMO, CEOS, and GCOS. Related decision
on the responsible team (Task Team on Satellite Data Requirements) is recorded under
paragraph 3.1.10, and actions under 3.2.5(i) and 4.1.10;
(ii)
Ocean observational requirement stakeholders: The Committee agreed on the need to
better define its stakeholders, particularly for ocean observations and services. It
requested that ETOOFS provide a list of such stakeholders in the field of ocean
forecasting (Action: ETOOFS Chair in coordination with its members, by MAN-IX in
September 2011);
(iii)
Improve communication in publication of the storm surge guide: The Committee
emphasized the necessity of adequate communication in order to ensure the quality,
timeliness and publication of the guide. Further discussion and decisions are recorded
under agenda item 4.2. The Committee also requested that the Secretariats, in
collaboration with Expert Team on Wind Waves and Storm Surges (ETWS), to complete
the Storm Surge Guide by February 2011 in order to have it published before the WMO
Congress in May 2011 (Action: WMO Secretariat in coordination with ETWS, by
February 2011);
(iv)
GMDSS review by International Maritime Organization (IMO): The Committee agreed
that JCOMM needs to be fully engaged. Further discussion is recorded under agenda
item 5.2;
(v)
Service improvement track record: The Committee agreed that a long term trend of
JCOMM (marine) service quality would be helpful to advance JCOMM implementation.
The Committee recommended that the SFSPA consider it as a future task, for example,
by undertaking a survey of past user satisfaction, or by developing a new metrics
(Action: SFSPA Teams, continuous);
(vi)
Training and coordination for the new Arctic METAREAS (for quality and consistency): In
addition to the Maritime Safety Services Enhancement Workshop (May 2010, Melbourne,
Australia), the Committee considered that other scientific and technical meetings should
be used as training opportunities. Further discussion is detailed under agenda item 5.2.
3.1.8.
The Committee thanked Dr. Ming Ji and members of the SFSPA teams for their active
pursuit of the Commission’s intersessional work plans.
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Data Management Programme Area (DMPA)
3.1.9.
The activities of the DMPA and projections of work through the intersessional period
were presented by Ms Sissy Iona, DMPA Coordinator. She gave a comprehensive report on the
status and the results of the work that is being carried out by the DMPA and its Task Teams and
focused on the priority activities as endorsed by JCOMM-III.
3.1.10. The Committee agreed with the DMPA future plans, as well as the proposal for the
establishment of a Cross-cutting Team on Satellite Data Requirements, of which the proposed
Terms of Reference (ToR) are reproduced as Annex V to this report (Decision). The Committee
requested to further clarify the ToR in terms of dealing with the interoperability issues (Action:
DMPA Coordinator with the Cross-cutting Team members, immediate).
3.1.11. The Committee noted that the DMPA would proceed with future actions for the
integration of SOC/DB, RNODC/DB and VOSClim RTMC under a new organizational framework.
3.1.12. The Committee concurred with the DMPA and WMO-IOC Data Buoy Cooperation Panel
(DBCP) recommendation to update the DBCP Terms of References (ToR) and workplan so that
the DBCP would become responsible for the Rigs and Platforms, including for the management of
relevant metadata (Action: DBCP to work with Secretariats to prepare a report to JCOMM-IV
for ToR Revision, JCOMM-IV). The Committee strongly recommended that the DBCP and Ship
Observations Team (SOT) establish appropriate coordination mechanisms for addressing the best
practices for the manned Rigs/Platforms making visual observations (Action: DBCP and SOT in
coordination with the Secretariat, as soon as possible).
3.1.13. The Committee agreed on the importance of standardizing formats for data and
metadata, and recognized that available options for the sharing of data include; (i) the IODE Ocean
Data Portal (IODE ODP), which is not a new data system but a system describing data sets and
pointing to centres where delayed mode and real-time data are available, including in NetCDF
which is a recognized format); (ii) the WMO Information System (WIS), and; (iii) the OpenDAP
using NetCDF format. The Committee noted with satisfaction that both IODE ODP and WIS were
accepting NetCDF formatted data, and are both contributing to the GEO Portal.
3.1.14. The Committee expressed the need to ensure effective management of operational data
and the need for a long term plan for these data. It was noted that the DMPA, through its Expert
Team on Data Management Practices (ETDMP), is cooperating with the IODE to develop the IODE
ODP, which will provide access to real-time data as well as delayed-mode data, and will become
interoperable with the WIS. The ETDMP Task Team for Ocean Data Standards is responsible for
the Ocean Data Standards process which will endorse standards and common vocabularies for
data discovery, access and retrieval.
3.1.15. While noting that DMPA has been addressing the migration to table driven codes for the
real-time distribution of ocean data through the GTS (essentially BUFR), and had made good
progress, the Committee recommended that appropriate training activities be planned for the
migration, and the development and sharing of standard encoding/decoding software be promoted
(Action, DMPA Coordinator in coordination with the Activity Leaders on Capacity Building
and IODE, continuous).
3.1.16. The Committee thanked Ms Iona and the DMPA Teams, as well as the collaborative
teams of IODE, for their active work in implementing JCOMM intersessional work plans.
3.2.
Cross-cutting activities within JCOMM
Satellite Data Requirements
3.2.1.
The Activity Leader on Satellite Data Requirements for OPA, Dr David Halpern gave a
presentation on his role as the representative of the IOC at the 38th meeting of the Coordination
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Group for Meteorological Satellites (CGMS-38, 8-12 November 2010). JCOMM is not a member of
the CGMS. CGMS was largely focused on the operations and utilization of data recorded by
operational meteorological satellites in low-Earth orbit and in geostationary orbit.. He suggested
that there was an opportunity through IOC input to CGMS to educate the meteorological satellite
community on the needs of satellite-based ocean services and ocean science. Two suggestions for
IOC input into CGMS were: (i) comply with the CGMS request to provide a short paper, about 2-4
pages in length, on an integrated satellite and in-situ data product at the annual CGMS meeting,
with sea surface temperature chosen to be the topic at CGMS-39, and; (ii) contribute to the
International Wind Working Group through the introduction of ocean surface vector wind data to an
activity focused primarily on cloud motion winds and water vapour motion.
3.2.2.
Dr. Halpern proposed that JCOMM investigate the role of satellite-based observations to
improve data products of interest to JCOMM, and he used significant wave height (SWH) to
illustrate the concept. Several NWP centres forecast SWH. NWP 5-day forecasts of SWH over a
long period like 20 years would show improvements of the forecast systems and the important role
played by satellite observations. Other variables were discussed.
3.2.3.
The Committee recalled that there were already two paths for expressing requirements
to the satellite operators;
(i)
The WMO RRR process and in particular the JCOMM SoG on ocean and marine
services;
(ii)
The GCOS Implementation Plan and its interaction with the CEOS which had led to the
development of Virtual Constellations for Essential Climate Variables (ECVs).
3.2.4.
The Committee discussed the possibility that an expert be asked to report to the next
CGMS based on the RRR and focusing on an example of one particular variable of relevance and
interest to the CGMS and the impact of satellite data on a service or application relevant to the
interests of the CGMS, as a way of increasing awareness of the importance of sustained ocean
observations from space.
3.2.5.
Discussion then centred on the question of how much priority to give to this action, and
on how to deliver the requirements for ocean services to the ongoing process. The Committee
finally agreed on the following:
(i)
To support WMO and IOC with the continued development of satellite data requirements
for JCOMM (see also para 3.1.7(ii)): the Committee re-established a Task Team on
Satellite Data Requirements as proposed by DMPA (see para 3.1.10), and;
(ii)
To support IOC in providing guidance to CGMS on ocean activities through preparation
of an annual report on a topic of relevance to JCOMM (Action: OCG Activity Leader
on Satellite Data Requirements, continuous).
Capacity Building
3.2.6.
The Committee was presented with a brief report by Mr Hassan Bouksim, Activity Leader
on Capacity Building, on activities for capacity development. It was noted that the activities in
general were undertaken in the form of workshops and training seminars, aiming to stimulate
extension of marine meteorological and oceanographic observing systems and marine forecasting
services.
3.2.7.
The Committee was informed of the results of the pilot project on MARINE METeorology
in West Africa (MARINEMET), funded by the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) in the
framework of the Conference of Directors of West Africa and other initiatives in West Africa, in
order to improve marine meteorological forecasting, reinforce maritime security, optimize fishery
management, and encourage and support this type of project at the regional level.
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3.2.8.
The Committee recalled that the JCOMM-III (2009) had adopted a statement of
principles for JCOMM Capacity Building (Annex 1 to the summary report of JCOMM-III). The
Committee also recalled the decision at JCOMM-III that capacity building activities would take
place as part of the work programmes of each PA, and agreed to continue with this approach.
Adding to this guidance, the Committee felt that there was a need to regularly compile the
ongoing/planned activities for capacity building within all Programme Areas in a coherent manner,
in order to ensure that these activities be implemented in line with the Commission’s goals and
objectives. The Committee therefore requested that Activity Leaders for Capacity Building draft a
procedure and template, appropriate for web publication, for regular reporting of the Commission’s
Capacity Building activities, in order to submit the first report to the next Management Committee
(Action: Activity Leaders for Capacity Building, by MAN-IX in September 2011).
Quality Management
3.2.9.
Mr Bryan Boase, Activity Leader on QMF/QMS, reported on the ongoing activities,
achievements and priorities of the WMO Quality Management Framework (QMF), and on a Pilot
Project being conducted by Australian Bureau of Meteorology for Marine Weather and Ocean
Services that has been undertaken on behalf of JCOMM.
3.2.10. The Committee noted that a “lessons learned” paper would result from the pilot that
would include a template for the development and implementation of a Quality Management
System (QMS) and the associated documentation. A number of QMS documentation templates
had been included in the paper submitted for the meeting.
3.2.11. The Committee noted with appreciation that the pilot project was going relatively
smoothly, but noted also that there would be significant challenges for National Meteorological and
Hydrological Services (NMHSs) at the commencement of their quality management journey that
included but were not restricted to;
(i)
Bringing about organisational cultural change to facilitate the adoption of a QM approach
to management;
(ii)
Demystifying ISO and removing any perceived threat from the adoption of a QMS for the
delivery of marine weather and ocean services;
(iii)
Effectively marketing and promoting quality management to NMHS staff and the
maritime industry;
(iv)
Articulating the cost-benefit ratio for the marine weather and ocean service key
stakeholders;
(v)
Ensuring a sound resource base in terms of financial and human resources to support
the adoption of a QMS approach;
(vi)
Identifying in-country “quality champions” as focal points for the development and
implementation of a QMS, and;
(vii)
Avoiding predatory consultants offering a “quick fix” that would lack the depth of
organisational penetration required for the sustainable and successful adoption of a
QMS.
3.2.12. However, it was noted that NMHSs that were adopting a QMS to meet International Civil
Aviation Organization (ICAO) regulatory requirements may take the opportunity to use the
momentum generated by that activity to extend the QM approach to their marine weather and
ocean services programmes.
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3.2.13. It was also noted that a meeting on formulating a way forward for the WMO-QMF was to
be conducted after the present Committee meeting, from the 23-26 November 2010, and that this
may have a significant bearing on JCOMM’s approach.
3.2.14. As such, the Committee considered it premature to decide on any action at this time
except to note its ongoing appreciation and support for the Australian Bureau of Meteorology pilot
project. Once that project had been realised and a lessons learned paper published, JCOMM MAN
would be in a position to provide informed comment in terms of the adoption of a quality
management approach to the delivery of marine weather and ocean services.
4.
Scientific and Technical Support
4.1.
Scientific and operational requirements
Ocean Observation Panel for Climate (OOPC)
4.1.1.
The chair of the Ocean Observations Panel for Climate (OOPC), Dr Eric Lindstrom,
provided a report on the OOPC actions. The 14th OOPC session took place in Miami 19-22
January 2010. Key actions and decisions from this meeting were as following;
(i)
To improve societal relevance of OOPC ocean climate indices as seen at http://ioc-goosoopc.org. Initial results are discussed under the “Climate Impacts” menu;
(ii)
To become actively involved in the development of an integrated framework for
sustained ocean observations including biogeochemistry and ecosystems (postOceanObs’09) – item discussed further below;
(iii)
To review deep ocean observation requirements. A workshop with this objective was
planned to be held from 28 March to 2 April 2011, in Paris, and;
(iv)
To conduct later (2011/2012) review of Ocean Thermal observation requirements.
4.1.2.
The Committee thanked Dr. Lindstrom for his report and expressed appreciation
particularly for the work on ocean climate indices. The Committee was also appreciative of new
work on deep-ocean observing requirements. It was decided that the OPA participate in the
workshop (item (iii) above), taking into account the deep ocean as a possible growth area for
JCOMM over the coming years (Action: OPA Coordinator to coordinate with OOPC
Chair/Secretariats, April 2011).
4.1.3.
A primary occupation of the OOPC Chair during 2010 was leading the OceanObs’09
Task Team on an Integrated Framework for Sustained Ocean Observations (IFSOO-TT). The
Team has prepared a document entitled “A Framework for Ocean Observing” as a rational
framework for investment in a coordinated suite of sustained global ocean observations for optimal
benefit to both science and society. This document was planned to be completed and briefed to
the meeting of the Board of the Intergovernmental Committee for GOOS (I-GOOS) in December
2010.
4.1.4.
The Committee noted that the proposed framework would be a conceptual structure
based on systems engineering approaches that encouraged consistent handling of observing
requirements, technical capacity, and information flow among different, largely autonomous,
observing units. It would increase adherence to a well-defined approach for establishing ocean
observing systems, focus on the linkages among ocean variables, and enhance coordination and
data sharing across multiple observing systems. The framework would provide a common
language for requirements, observations, and information outputs. Essential Ocean Variables
(EOVs) would be used as an organizing approach, as this would align with both natural
phenomena and with established observing strategies. The framework will guide proponents of a
specific EOV through concept, pilot, and mature development phases by applying consistent
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standards to gauge the readiness of requirements, observation technology, and data/information
products for any new observing proposal. The Committee agreed that this proposed framework
would provide a mechanism – through oversight panels and/or expert teams -- for balancing
innovation with the need for a stable, sustained global ocean observing system.
4.1.5.
The Committee noted the recommended approaches in the framework, as follows:
(i)
Use common terminology to articulate requirements in the framework;
(ii)
Use “Essential Ocean Variables (EOVs)” as an organizing structure for the framework;
(iii)
Use consistent standards for assessing EOV requirements, technologies and products;
(iv)
Reduce duplication of ocean measurements;
(v)
Measure once/use many times, and;
(vi)
Encourage data standards and broad accessibility.
4.1.6.
Dr. Lindstrom noted that the impacts of implementing the proposed framework were
multifaceted: data sharing standards across the broad framework community would allow new
discoveries through new combinations of disparate data types. It would enable clearer thinking on
issues driving ocean observing, and an optimized design geared to societal issues. It would also
be a source of ocean community unity by eliminating artificial distinctions among different
observing communities. It would provide synthesized data to support the general public and public
policymakers, including information to support climate change risk mitigation.
4.1.7.
The Committee considered that JCOMM is largely compliant with the framework and is a
model for many of the practices expected of those aspiring to implement new sustained ocean
observing systems. It agreed to support further development of the framework over the coming
year, as it briefed to other sponsors and evolved from its “Consultative Draft” to final form
(Decision). The Committee supported the idea of briefing the framework and its implications to
JCOMM-IV in 2012 (Action: Secretariats in consultation with JCOMM Co-Presidents and
OOPC Chair, JCMM-IV).
4.1.8.
The Committee expressed its caution about expanding the role of JCOMM to a larger
number of ocean variables, considering the given mandates of the Commission by the parent
organizations. Nevertheless, the Committee encouraged OPA to remain open to coordination and
cooperation with emerging groups on carbon, chemical, biological, and ecosystem variables
(Action: OCG, continuous).
4.1.9.
Finally, Dr. Lindstrom reported on the WCRP Open Science Conference scheduled for
24-28 October 2011 in Denver, USA (see http://conference2011.wcrp-climate.org), which more
than 2000 climate scientists are expected to attend. He encouraged a strong JCOMM presence at
this event, particularly contributions to one daily theme: “Observation and Analysis of the Climate
System”, including a poster session entitled: “Maintaining and enhancing ocean observations,
including sea ice”. The Committee supported the plan and requested that all PAs contribute
material for the WCRP Open Science Conference (Action: PA Coordinators to lead, October
2011).
WMO/CBS Rolling Review of Requirements (RRR)
4.1.10. The Committee noted that the Implementation Plan for the Evolution of the Global
Observing System (EGOS-IP) provides guidance for WMO Members to decide on funding for the
observing systems supporting WMO application areas. In this context, the Committee agreed that
JCOMM should use the WMO Rolling Review of Requirements (RRR) as a mechanism to address
relevant JCOMM requirements (climate, ocean applications, numerical weather prediction (NWP) –
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feeding into marine services -, etc.) through the EGOS-IP, with a view to secure resources for
ocean observing systems by WMO Members.
4.1.11. The Committee expressed its appreciation to Mr Ali Mafimbo for coordinating JCOMM
efforts in this regard, and compiling input from the Expert Teams under SFSPA to feed the
database of user requirements regarding requirements for ocean applications under JCOMM. Mr
Mafimbo was also coordinating within the SFPSA and OPA for revising the Statement of Guidance
for Ocean Applications. Noting that the CBS Expert Team on the Evolution of the Global Observing
System (ET-EGOS) will meet in early 2011, the Committee urged the SFPSA and its Expert Teams
to collaborate and provide updates on observing requirements available to date to Mr Mafimbo as
soon as possible and no later than the end of 2010 (Action: SFSPA Coordinator and ET Chairs,
31 Dec 2010). The Committee also requested the OPA and its Panels to provide appropriate input
to Mr Mafimbo as soon as possible with a view to identifying the gaps when comparing instrument
performance with user requirements (Action: OPA Coordinator, 31 Dec 2010).
4.2.
Standards, best practices and guides
4.2.1.
The Committee noted the latest developments with regard to the JCOMM-IODE Ocean
Data Standards (ODS) Process, of which the main goal is to allow the easy exchange and
interoperability of ocean data collected worldwide. This provides for an internationally recognised
process for submitting proposed standards and their acceptance by the ocean community. The
Committee noted with appreciation that one standard had been submitted, reviewed, and
published (http://www.oceandatastandards.org/). Two other standards have been submitted for
review. Two more are being considered for submission. The Committee concurred with the DMPA
approach to coordinate the ODS process through the IODE-JCOMM Expert Team on Data
Management Practices (ETDMP) and a dedicated ODS Task Team, as described at the web page
above. (Decision).
4.2.2.
The Committee stressed again the importance of collecting and sharing
instrument/platform metadata and praised the efforts of the DMPA and the JCOMM Water
Temperature Metadata Pilot Project (META-T) in this regard. The Committee noted the limited
success of the META-T Pilot Project where good progress was made in terms of defining and
updating appropriate BUFR templates for ocean data but limited success was realized in terms of
collecting metadata through the META-T servers. The Committee noted that the Chair of the
META-T Pilot Project, Mr Derrick Snowden (USA) had reported at the recent meeting of the Joint
Steering Group for the IOC/IODE Ocean Data Portal (ODP) and the JCOMM Pilot Project for
WIGOS that: (i) the goal of creating a single service for all JCOMM platform metadata is unlikely to
be successful, and; (ii) a strategy of developing metadata servers in close cooperation with
platform operators should be pursued. The Committee concurred with these recommendations.
The Committee also agreed to the recommendation from the JCOMM Pilot Project for WIGOS that
the META-T Pilot Project should document its lessons learned, propose legacy recommendations,
and finally wind up its activities (Action: META-T PP chair with Secretariats, as soon as
possible). The Committee tasked the DMCG to follow up on these recommendations (Action:
DMCG in coordination with META-T PP chair, 31 May 2011).
4.2.3.
Regarding the JCOMM Catalogue of Best Practices and Standards, the Committee,
while recognizing the value of the Catalogue, emphasized that it should be kept under continuous
review and that the information available from the corresponding web site be routinely updated.
The Committee requested the DMCG to nominate a responsible person for the Catalogue (Action:
DMCG, 31 December 2010).
4.2.4.
The Committee noted and approved the process for adopting a WMO-IOC
Regional Marine Instrument Centre (RMIC), as described in Annex VI (Decision). The Committee
then reviewed the application submitted by the National Centre of Ocean Standards and Metrology
(NCOSM), Tianjin, China, including its statement of compliance. It noted that the joint Steering
Group for the IODE Ocean Data Portal and the JCOMM Pilot Project for WIGOS had reviewed this
application and acted for the Observations Coordination Group (OCG) according to the adoption
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process. The Committee thanked China for its offer, and endorsed its application for the NCOSM in
Tianjin to act as an RMIC for the Asia-Pacific region. It requested the JCOMM Co-President to
draft a Resolution to be submitted to the WMO and IOC Executive Bodies in 2011, to reflect the
adoption process for the RMICs and recognition of the RMIC in Tianjin (Action: Co-Presidents,
January 2011). The Committee requested the Co-President to ensure that the Resolution would
emphasize the need to avoid duplication of efforts and to permit the sharing of responsibility, in
case two or more RMICs operated within one region.
4.2.5.
The Committee praised the efforts of the JCOMM Pilot Project for WIGOS to promote
the updating of relevant WMO and IOC publications, and concurred with the strategy proposed by
the Pilot Project. In particular, The Committee noted the ongoing and planned efforts including; (i)
review of the marine chapter of the WMO Guide on Meteorological Instruments and Methods of
Observation (WMO No. 8, CIMO Guide), by the SOT and the DBCP, and; (ii) by the decision at
JCOMM-III, changes to the WMO Guide to Marine Meteorological Services (WMO No. 471) to
formalize the integration of the Volunteer Observing Ship Climate Project (VOSClim) into the wider
VOS. A strategy for updating appropriate WMO and IOC publications dealing with instrument best
practices and standards had been proposed by the Pilot Project, and the DBCP and the WMO
have provided resources to recruit a consultant (Mr David Meldrum, UK) to review and update key
WMO and IOC Publications from a marine/ocean observations perspective in order to make them
consistent with each other and to reflect latest technological progress.
Procedure for publishing Guides
4.2.6.
Given the experience of ETWS in the Storm Surge Guide revision/publication, the
Management Committee requested the WMO Secretariat to provide a draft "process/procedure" for
future publication/revision of Guides/Manuals. (Action: WMO Secretariat in coordination with
the ETWS Chair, December 2010).
5.
Priority Issues for the Intersessional Period
5.1.
WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS), WMO Information System
(WIS) and IOC/IODE Ocean Data Portal (ODP)
5.1.1.
The Committee recalled that the WMO Executive Council at its 62nd session (June
2010) had endorsed the WIGOS Development and Implementation Strategy (WDIS), including the
three WIGOS phases for (i) test of concept (2007-2011), (ii) implementation (2012-2015), and (iii)
operational (2016 and beyond). WDIS describes the steps to be followed by WMO to improve
governance, management, and integration of observing systems. WDIS also includes capacitybuilding requirements and clearly specifies responsibilities across the WMO system for the further
development and implementation of WIGOS, addressing coordination and technical challenges of
the implementation process. The Committee agreed that JCOMM should commit itself to realize
the goals of the WDIS concerning the integration of ocean observations into WIGOS (Decision).
5.1.2.
The Committee reviewed the status of the JCOMM Pilot Project for WIGOS that aimed
at testing concepts for the integration of marine meteorological and other appropriate
oceanographic observations into WIGOS. The completion of the Pilot Project with a Project Report
(to be published as JCOMM Technical Report No. 48) was noted. The report would include
information on the achievements of the Pilot Project, test of concept, pending issues, lessons
learned, benefits and impacts on Members/Member States regarding the integration of marine
meteorological and other appropriate oceanographic observations into WIGOS, as well as Pilot
Project legacy recommendations. The Committee was pleased to note that the JCOMM Pilot
Project was recognized by the sub-group of the WMO Executive Council Working Group on
WIGOS and WIS as the most successful case, thanks mainly to the appropriate governance
existing through JCOMM that permitted an excellent cooperation between the WMO and IOC
(IODE) partners. The Committee invited its members to review the project report (at present in
draft) and to provide feedback and comments to the Co-Chairs of the Joint Steering Group for the
Pilot Project, Mr Greg Reed (Australia) and Dr Jitze van der Meulen (the Netherlands), as well as
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to the WMO Secretariat no later than 31 December 2010 (Action, MAN members, 31 December
2010).
5.1.3.
The Committee concurred with the legacy recommendations of the Pilot Project, and
recommended that the OCG and DMCG coordinate their efforts to propose a consolidated work
plan addressing the legacy recommendations relevant to their respective responsibilities (Action:
OCG and DMCG, as soon as possible). The work plan should address implementation issues at
the national and regional level, with a view to its submission to JCOMM-IV for approval as a
contribution of JCOMM towards the WIGOS Implementation Phase (2012-2015). The Committee
also requested the Co-Presidents to address the funding issue for this implementation phase of the
integration of ocean observations into WIGOS, and to seek support from the 16th WMO Congress
in 2011 (Cg-XVI) including the allocation of appropriate resources within the WMO Regular Budget,
as well as from voluntary contributions during the WIGOS Implementation Phase (Action: CoPresidents in coordination with the WMO Secretariat, WMO CG-XVI).
5.1.4.
The Committee then reviewed the current list of Candidate Data Collection and
Production Centres (DCPCs) from JCOMM, and agreed that it was appropriate for the time being
while noting that some additions might be recommended at a later stage.
5.1.5.
The Committee agreed with the DMPA approach with regard to the development of
interoperability between the IODE ODP and the WIS, including JCOMM’s representation in the
CBS Expert Team on WIS Global Information System Centres (GISCs) and DCPCs (ET-WISC)
(Decision). Related discussion also occurred under agenda item 3.1.3.
5.1.6.
The Committee recalled the discussion at JCOMM-III on the Association of HydroMeteorological Equipment Industry (HMEI), that HMEI could possibly be given a certain status
within the UNESCO/IOC as a non-governmental organization similar to its status within WMO. The
Committee, considering also the related recommendation from the JCOMM Pilot Project for
WIGOS, agreed that this would help strengthening coordination with the manufacturers in terms of
standards setting and technical development. The Committee also considered that Organizations’
recognition of HMEI would encourage marine instrument manufacturers to be better coordinated
through the HMEI. The Committee requested the OCG to set up a plan to provide input to the IOC
Assembly in this regard (Action: OCG in coordination with the IOC Secretariat, March 2011).
5.2.
Maritime Safety Services
5.2.1.
The Committee recalled that a major objective for JCOMM Services during the
intersessional period had been to implement operational GMDSS for the Arctic Ocean. As part of
this effort, the Maritime Safety Services Enhancement Workshop was held in May 2010 with
participation from issuing services of all five new Arctic Ocean METAREAs. The workshop also
included a training session for Quality Management System. The three issuing services, Russia,
Canada and Norway are on schedule to achieve full operational capability for Arctic METAREAs by
July 2011. It was noted that there was a potential challenge to ensure consistency in maritime
safety information (MSI) across common boundaries of adjacent METAREAs.
5.2.2.
As for the MSI for new Arctic METAREAS, the Committee noted the working progress by
ETMSS to develop a MSI suite for Arctic Ocean. The Committee, noting the importance of training
in parallel with developing new services, recommended taking the opportunity afforded by a
number of planned workshops and meeting on polar issues, such as the Sea Ice Analysis
Workshop in June 2011, in Denmark (Action: ETMSS in coordination with Activity Leaders on
Capacity Building, continuous).
5.2.3.
The Committee also noted SFSPA plans to conduct a joint WMO-IMO-IHO survey for
Maritime Safety Information (MSI) users in 2011. The results will be reported at the JCOMM-IV.
5.2.4.
The Committee noted with pleasure significant progress in the development of graphical
sea ice and met-ocean information for display in Electronic Nautical Chart (ENC) form. This effort
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was regarded as timely given the ongoing IMO planning on future e-Navigation that would
significantly increase capability for MSI. The Committee, on a related note, considered the IMO
proposal on conducting a technical review for GMDSS. Considering the relevance/impact of these
initiatives on MSI, the Committee recommended that the WMO Secretariat be fully engaged in both
of IMO initiatives with support by the Expert Teams (Action: WMO Secretariat in coordination
with ETMSS and ETSI, continuous).
5.2.5.
The Committee considered that the user requirements for polar services would increase
considerably over the coming years, not only from a wider range of Arctic industries (e.g. oil and
gas industries, tourism) but also for the Southern Hemispheric high latitude activities (tourism,
fisheries and research). The Committee recommended that the ETMSS and ETSI take into
account the potential discussion in this context, as a future action (Action: ETMSS and ETSI,
continuous).
5.3.
Marine/Oceanographic Hazards
Joint JCOMM/CHy Coastal Inundation Forecasting Demonstration Project (CIFDP);
5.3.1.
The Committee recalled that the WMO Executive council at its 62nd session (Geneva,
June 2010) emphasized the importance of a comprehensive and integrated approach for marine
multi-hazard forecasting and warning systems, for improved coastal risk management. The WMO
Council also noted the importance of an integrated effort for developing and improving forecasting
capabilities and service delivery in coastal risk reduction by strengthening the cooperation among
relevant programmes and technical commissions, and making use of existing frameworks or
projects, including the WMO Severe Weather Forecasting Demonstration Project (SWFDP),
especially in coastal inundation-prone regions.
5.3.2.
In this context, the JCOMM/CHy Coastal Inundation Forecast Demonstration Project
(CIFDP) had been initiated for building improved operational forecast and warning capability for
coastal inundation from combined extreme waves, surges and river flooding events. Additionally, in
the context of cross-cutting capacities, the CIFDP aimed at establishing collaboration and constant
communication between scientists, forecasters, NMHSs and institutional end-users to meet users’
requirements and enhance response to coastal inundation risks.
5.3.3.
The Committee noted that this demonstration project would be initially implemented in
the Bay of Bengal (Bangladesh) and in the Caribbean regions (Dominican Republic). The
Committee noted the outcomes of the CIFDP Steering Group Meeting (Geneva, 20 – 22
September 2010), and endorse the concept of the project plan and the phased approach as
following:
(i)
Phase 0, Project preparation phase: national agency(ies) agreement and commitment to
the development of a long-term sustainable forecasting system;
(ii)
Phase 1, Information gathering: infrastructure (organization and responsibilities); user
requirements; data inventory; model inventory; hazard and vulnerability maps; system
specification; revision of the organic Project Plan; endorsement of the specified project
from the national government;
(iii)
Phase 2, Project implementation: forecasting system integration (model adapters,
hardware infrastructure), output communication plan, test of historical storms and
verification, initial capacity building, ongoing review and evaluation by forecast
producers;
(iv)
Phase 3, Pre-operational testing and technical capacity building: capacity building
among forecasters during the tropical cyclone season, simulated multi-agency exercise
with involvement of pilot communities;
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(v)
Phase 4, Operational evaluation: way forward; enhancements of the forecasting system;
capacity building on developed products; development of hazard and vulnerability maps
towards implementation of risk mapping; evaluation of the end-to-end system and
demonstration workshop for stakeholders and media partners.
5.3.4.
The Committee, noting the importance and potential benefit of this project, emphasized
that the success of this project would depend on the completion of the phase 0 (making national
agreement and commitment) for both Indian Ocean and Caribbean regions. The Committee
therefore requested That the WMO Secretariat seek a general agreement at the national level
between the relevant institutions in Dominican Republic and Bangladesh respectively (Action:
WMO Secretariat, immediate).
5.3.5.
The Committee also noted that the project should establish collaboration and regular
communication between scientists, forecasters, NMHSs and institutional end-users, in cooperation
with other ongoing activities with common objectives/goals. In this context, the Committee
requested WMO and IOC Secretariats to continue building linkages with the IOC Project on
Enhancing Regional Capabilities for Coastal Hazards Forecasting (discussed under this agenda
item), IOC Integrated Coastal Area Management (ICAM), and related activities under Regional
Tsunami Warning Systems (Action: WMO and IOC Secretariats, continuous).
5.3.6.
The Committee, in reviewing the project implementation plan, expressed concerns on
the proposed timelines and available resources. The Committee requested the project steering
group (PSG) and WMO Secretariat to revise the timeline for phases 2 to 4 for both for the Indian
Ocean and for Caribbean region, and complete the document with a more realistic plan (Action:
CIFDP PSG and WMO Secretariat, immediate).
UNESCO Pilot Project on Enhancing Regional Capabilities for Coastal Hazard Forecasting
5.3.7.
The Committee was briefly informed on the progress of the UNESCO Pilot Project on
Enhancing Regional Capabilities for Coastal Hazard Forecasting, which was initiated following the
recommendations of the First JCOMM Scientific and Technical Symposium on Storm Surges
(September 2007, Seoul, Korea: http://www.surgesymposium.org). This project to; (i) support
scientific and technical development for enhancing regional capabilities for coastal hazards
forecasting, by using a community model that is operated by NMHSs in North Indian Ocean region,
and; (ii) link regional community/activity with global framework.
5.3.8.
The Committee noted that key members of ETWS have led the process in line with the
SFSPA intersessional workplan, with extrabudgetary support from the Republic of Korea and India.
The first phase was launched in 2009 for the North Indian Ocean, which is the most surge prone
region in the world. The implementation has been made with institutional partnership with the
government of India (including the IIT Delhi modelling team, Indian Meteorological Department,
and Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services). The first advisory workshop (July
2009, Delhi, India, http://www.jcomm.info/SSindia) reviewed the performance of the currently
operating storm surge model in the Region (IIT D model), and agreed on the 3 year workplans to
upgrade the model predictability. The progress was to be reviewed at the second workshop
planned for 11-15 February 2011 (http://www.jcomm.info/SSIndia2). The Committee noted with
satisfaction that the second workshop would extend the regional participation in order to share
developed technologies and to provide a training opportunity, as necessary.
5.3.9.
The Committee agreed that this project was highly relevant and could provide benefit to
the CIFDP, and that two projects should continue interacting throughout the process. It was agreed
that the outcome of this project should be considered in the implementation of the CIFDP,
particularly for the demonstration in Indian Ocean as the Bangladesh Meteorological Department
adopted the IIT D model as the operational storm surge forecasting tool (see also para 5.3.5). The
Committee requested that progress with this project be reported to the SPA and to the Committee,
as necessary, as part of the implementation of the recommendations by the JCOMM Storm Surge
- 15 -
Symposium (Action: IOC Secretariat in coordination with the Project advisory group, MAN-IX
and continuous).
5.4.
Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS)
5.4.1.
Dr. Buruhani Nyensi, Manage of the High-Level Taskforce on Global Framework for
Climate Services Secretariat in WMO, informed the Committee of the progress of the work of the
High Level Task Force on the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS).
5.4.2.
The Committee expressed its concern for the GFCS to provide clear guidance regarding
the expected contributions from the various WMO Technical Commissions. In this regard a formal
request to the WMO Technical Commissions on potential contributions to the GFCS would be
necessary (Action: WMO Secretariat, in coordination with Co-Presidents, carry out related
discussion with GFCS High Level Task Force secretariat in order to identify necessary
actions, as soon as possible).
5.4.3.
The Committee observed that the GFCS report should address clearly areas of high
priority such as filling the gaps on climate related observations, as these form the bases for better
climate information and prediction. The Committee further emphasised that there is need for the
GFCS to be explicit on how climate information and knowledge will be delivered at local levels,
meeting users’ expectations and requirements, and how the given information would be used, as
this is where such information is needed but currently not available. The Committee also
emphasized the importance of the involvement of a wide range of different players, including the
private sector, in the development and governance of the GFCS.
5.4.4.
The Committee cautioned that new initiatives of GFCS might affect the available
resources for existing activities that address climate issues, which might cause difficulties for those
programmes. The Committee considered that the ongoing successful activities should be
continuously supported by the Organizations and Members / Member States, as they would
continue to play a role as core mechanisms to contribute to the GFCS process. Finally, the
Committee expressed the hope that the report of the High Level Task Force would also provide
some clarification on the working approach and expected results from the eventual GFCS
governance mechanisms to be established by the sponsoring Organizations.
5.5.
Legacy of the International Polar Year (IPY) and polar observations/services
5.5.1.
The Committee recalled that the Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar
Observations, Research and Services (EC-PORS) is the body within the WMO that is responsible
for the overall coordination of polar activities amongst WMO Members. It was formed in 2009 in
recognition by the WMO Congress and Executive Council of the need to globally coordinate the
exchange of meteorological and other environmental data from the Polar Regions to research,
monitor and predict the state of the polar atmosphere. IOC and other partner Organizations of
WMO are invited to participate in the work of EC-PORS.
5.5.2.
The second session of EC-PORS took place in Hobart, Australia, 18-20 October 2010. A
JCOMM document was provided to the session by Co-President Dr Peter Dexter, who also
participated personally and provided a presentation on JCOMM. Additional relevant documentation
for the session was provided in the form of status reports from the International Arctic Buoy
Programme (IABP) and International Programme for Antarctic Buoys (IPAB), by Dr Tim Goos, and
from the Southern Ocean Observing System (SOOS) by Dr Steve Rintoul). Particular emphasis in
the JCOMM document was placed on the current status of the ocean observing system in both
high latitude regions, as well as the status of implementation of the new Arctic METAREAS. The
assistance of EC-PORS was sought in encouraging the further enhancement of the observing
system in high latitudes, including through SOOS.
5.5.3.
Outcomes of PORS-II of interest to JCOMM included;
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(i)
Establishment of a Global Integrated Polar Prediction System (GIPPS), involving
integrated atmosphere, ocean, ice modelling and prediction, following on from
A concept paper for Congress outlining a proposed development plan, with
associated information document describing global benefits
A white paper describing service requirements and the service value from GIPPS;
(ii)
Establishment of a Global Cryosphere Watch (GCW);
(iii)
Support for SOOS;
(iv)
Membership of the Panel in future will include ocean expertise;
(v)
Future IOC participation was strongly encouraged.
5.5.4.
The Committee agreed that, dependant on the outcomes of the consideration of the
proposals from EC-PORS by Cg-XVI (2011), JCOMM should investigate a potential role for itself in
these proposed activities, and in the work of EC-PORS, in a number of areas:
(i)
GIPPS
Input to developing service requirements through ETMSS and ETSI
Ocean and sea ice modelling through ETOOFS
(ii)
GCW
ETSI participation
Observations and data management
(iii)
Observing system
All teams under OPA
Support for SOOS and the Sustaining Arctic Observing Networks (SAON)
Development of the role of JCOMMOPS in supporting polar marine activities
(iv)
Service delivery, including but not confined to the operation of the new Arctic
METAREAs.
5.5.5.
The Committee recognized that the growing emphasis on polar regions, stimulated by
the IPY and its legacy, and now being progressed through EC-PORS, would benefit from input
from JCOMM. It therefore agreed that JCOMM should review the possibilities for such input as
outlined in the previous paragraph, based on any agreements and guidance to be provided by
WMO CG-XVI (Action: Co-Presidents and WMO Secretariat, following WMO Cg-XVI). The
Committee agreed with the proposal that future JCOMM input to and liaison with EC-PORS should
be coordinated by David Meldrum, vice-chair of the OCG (Action: David Meldrum, ongoing).
5.5.6.
The Committee noted that additional resources must be made available in order for
JCOMM to expand its mandates, including EC-PORS and WIGOS/WIS. In this regard, the
Committee requests that the Co-Presidents and WMO Secretariat to make it clear to the WMO
Congress that resources must be provided with any new mission requirements given to the
Commission (Action: WMO Secretariat and Co-Presidents, WMO PTC in February 2011)
5.5.7.
In anticipation of appropriate new resources and new mandates from the outcome of the
CG-16, the Committee requested the PA Coordinators, to coordinate with EC-PORS as
appropriate, to prepare for their potential contribution to EC-PORS activities. This might include, in
particular, the work plans to be presented to JCOMM-IV for the next intersessional period (Action:
PA Coordinators, following Cg-XVI). In addition, it requested the OCG to address the potential
role of JCOMMOPS in supporting polar regions and the work of EC-PORS, and how the additional
resources for this support might be secured (Action: OCG and JCOMMOPS, following CG-16).
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6.
Strategic and Structural Issues
6.1.
JCOMM Collaboration with IOC-WMO and External Programmes and Projects
6.1.1.
The Committee recognized that fisheries represent a significant component of food
supply globally. It noted that both the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO, 2008) and the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change the Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) of the
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) had recognized that climate variability and
change are likely to impact fisheries in a substantially negative way, including higher water
temperatures, changing weather regimes, changes in ocean salinity patterns, etc. This impacted
on the productivity and distribution of both oceanic and coastal fisheries. It agreed that JCOMM
(and previously Commission for Marine Meteorology) had been somewhat neglectful of fisheries in
the past, with fisheries not covered under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea
(SOLAS) requirements, and with any services provided nationally, but not supported at the
international level. Fisheries vessels also represented a potentially important untapped source of
metocean data. Nevertheless, the JCOMM ToRs include “support for Members/Member States in
the preparation and delivery of marine operational and climate services, to support maritime safety,
decision making and the development of impact and adaptation strategies”. Similar considerations
applied to the WMO Commission on Agrometeorology (CAgM).
6.1.2.
To address such issues, CAgM-15 (Brazil, July 2010) proposed to establish a joint
CAgM/JCOMM Expert Team on Weather, Climate and Fisheries and developed initial ToRs. The
Committee recognized that there were some potential advantages for JCOMM in such an ET:
–
To provide a mechanism to address marine service requirements of fisheries
–
As an important source of metocean data
–
To provide a direct contribution to GFCS, with associated potential for new funding
–
As an important cross-cutting activity in WMO
–
To also provide a contribution to broader IOC work in fisheries and fishery management
6.1.3.
At the same time, the Committee was very conscious of a number of potentially limiting
factors, from a JCOMM perspective, in the co-sponsorship of such a new team. These included the
lack of easily identified relevant expertise within the existing JCOMM community; dangers related
to focussing an expert team on a specific user community or issue; the “mandate creep” inherent in
moving, even partially, into non-physical ocean issues; and the resources limitations generally,
given the existing number of high priority activities requiring resourcing. The Committee therefore
decided that, at the present time, it was not in a position to endorse a commitment by JCOMM to
become a co-sponsor of the proposed expert team.
6.1.4.
The Committee noted that a Workshop on “Climate and Oceanic Fisheries” was being
planned by WMO, through CAgM, to take place in Rarotonga, Cook Islands, in October 2011. The
workshop was being designed to address issues related to enhanced understanding of climate and
its impacts on oceanic fisheries, with particular focus on Pacific Island Countries (PICs), where
fisheries, both subsistence and market based, are a significant part of local economies. Confirmed
sponsorship to date included from the Cook Islands Government, the Secretariat of the Pacific
Commission, NOAA, and the University of Auckland. Likely sponsors also included the Australian
Bureau of Meteorology, Australian Government Overseas Aid Program (AusAID), and CSIRO
Australia. Participation was expected from some 50 invited experts as well as nominations from the
PICs.
6.1.5.
The Committee agreed on the value of JCOMM co-sponsorship of the workshop,
stressing at the same time that such JCOMM co-sponsorship must not involve any funding
demand on the regular budget. It requested the Co-Presidents and the Secretariats to support
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planning for and the implementation of the workshop on this basis (Action: Co-Presidents and
Secretariats with CAgM, as soon as possible). In addition, the Committee was informed of the
interest within the IOC Ocean Science Section in the workshop, and also potentially in a joint
expert team. It therefore recommended to IOC to consider becoming a direct workshop sponsor,
alongside WMO (Action: IOC Ocean Science Section, as soon as possible).
6.1.6.
The Committee further recognized that the workshop would provide an excellent forum
to better assess the feasibility and potential value for JCOMM in joining CAgM in a joint expert
team as discussed above in paragraph 6.1.3. It therefore agreed further that JCOMM should
identify 3-4 experts from the existing JCOMM community to participate in the workshop, and at the
same time to propose to CAgM that these experts should meet with the relevant CAgM experts in
the margins of the workshop, to develop a more detailed rationale and proposal for the joint expert
team. This could then be taken forward to JCOMM-IV, for a decision by the Commission as a
whole (Action: Co-Presidents, PA Coordinators and Secretariats to identify experts and
arrange workshop participation, as soon as possible).
6.2.
JCOMM Strategy and Operating Plan
6.2.1.
The Committee recalled that the revised executive summary of the JCOMM Strategy
2010-2013 was adopted by JCOMM-III (2009), and the Strategy was amended accordingly. The
current version of this document is available at http://www.jcomm.info/Strategy. The Committee
recognized that the JCOMM strategy would continue to be a dynamic document, and requested
the Co-Presidents to submit an updated Strategy document with proposed revision, where
necessary, to the next session of the Committee (Action: Co-Presidents, by MAN-IX in
September 2011).
6.2.2.
The Committee took note of the progress in preparing the JCOMM review, following the
decision of IOC and WMO governing bodies. It was noted with concern that only a few Members /
Member States responded to the call for contribution to JCOMM review by nominating national
experts, with only one offer for extrabudgetary contribution. The Committee agreed that further
advice was required from the IOC and WMO governing bodies regarding the JCOMM review
(Action: Secretariats to report to the governing bodies for guidance, June 2011).
6.3.
Structural preparation for JCOMM-IV
6.3.1.
The Committee agreed that the current structure and composition of the teams were
appropriate to make progress in the implementation of the Commission’s intersessional work plan,
at present. It considered that this issue should be discussed at the next session (MAN-IX) in 2011
as a main item, in order to prepare a proposal to JCOMM-IV (Action: Co-Presidents and PA
Coordinators to draft a structure after JCOMM-IV, for consideration at MAN-IX).
7.
Logistical preparation for JCOMM-IV
7.1.
The Committee recalled that the 4th session of JCOMM (JCOMM-IV) would be held in
Yeosu, Korea, from 23 to 31 May 2012. (Wed-Thu). The Committee requested the Secretariats to
take necessary measures to advance the organization of the session in time (Action: Secretariats,
as soon as possible).
7.2.
The Commission also noted that the 2nd international symposium on “Effects of climate
change on the world’s oceans” was planned for 12-16 May 2012. In the meantime, the Committee
suggested consider a scientific and technical symposium to be organized within the session during
the JCOMM-IV session, in order to stimulate discussion on key science issues and to encourage
participation of experts from developing countries. It was agreed that the Committee would
continue discussion with OOPC, Secretariats, and the host country (Republic of Korea) for further
planning (Action: Secretariats, OOPC Chair and Co-Presidents, as soon as possible).
- 19 -
8.
Any other business
8.1.
The Committee briefly reviewed the progress in updating the JCOMM website
(http://www.jcomm.info), including the rearrangement of the JCOMM publication lists, members
lists for JCOMM Teams and Groups, and supplement of metadata information for each
document/meeting to assist the advanced search within the website. The Committee expressed
satisfaction for the work of the Secretariats, and encouraged the community to extend using the
web site for the work of the Commission.
8.2.
The Committee noted that, since JCOMM-III (2009), the JCOMM Newsletter had been
issued every 6 months through the JCOMM website and email communication. The Committee
encouraged its members and any interested person in the community to submit an article for the
8th issue of JCOMM Newsletter (to be published in December 2010) and later issues (Action: all,
continuous).
8.3
The Committee was briefed by the Secretariats on the status of the regular budget support
for JCOMM in WMO and IOC, both for the remainder of the current biennium (to end 2011) and
expected for the following financial periods, based on Programme and Budget documents to be
presented to Congress and the Assembly respectively. Recognizing that this regular budget
support was likely to remain inadequate to implement the full JCOMM work programme for the
foreseeable future, the Committee urged the Co-Presidents and PA Coordinators to continue to
work with the Secretariats in managing available funds to address the most urgent priorities for the
Commission and its parent Organizations, and also in identifying extrabudgetary funds to support
key activities wherever possible (Action: Co-Presidents, PA Coordinators and Secretariats,
continuous).
9.
Closure of the Session
9.1.
The Committee decided to hold its 9th session (MAN-IX) at WMO Headquarters, Geneva,
Switzerland, with tentative dates for 6 to 9 September 2011 (Action: WMO Secretariat to prepare
for the session hosting, immediate). The Committee would focus at this session on preparing for
and organizing JCOMM-IV, including the documentation, future work programme, internal structure,
and key positions in the Commission.
9.2.
Dr Wendy Watson-Wright, the IOC Executive Secretary, expressed her appreciation for
the work of the Commission. She noted that the IOC Member States recognize JCOMM as an
exemplary mechanism for joint intergovernmental coordination by IOC and WMO. With IOC’s
continuing support for the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) as priority, Dr Watson-Wright
emphasized JCOMM’s role in coordinating global ocean observing systems to realize GOOS, and
furthermore, in developing the operational marine services for society.
9.3.
The Committee reviewed and approved the final report of the meeting and action items
for the remaining intersessional period.
9.4.
In closing the meeting, the JCOMM Co-Presidents, Dr Peter Dexter and Dr Alexander
Frolov, expressed their appreciation to all participants for their very positive and valuable input to
the discussions, and to the Secretariats for its ongoing support, which was vital to implementing
the mandate and achieving the goals of JCOMM.
9.5.
The eighth session of the JCOMM Management Committee closed at 1400 on Friday, 19
November 2010.
_____________
- 20 -
Annex I
LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
JCOMM Management Committee
Mr Bryan BOASE
National Manager Weather Services Quality
Australian Bureau of Meteorology
GPO Box 1289
Melbourne VIC 3001
Australia
Tel: +61 3 9669 4719
Fax: +61 3 9669 4695
Email: b.boase@bom.gov.au
Ms Candyce CLARK
Climate Observation Division
NOAA/Climate Program Office (CPO)
1100 Wayne Avenue, suite 1202
Silver Spring MD 20910
UnitedStates
Tel: +1 301 427 2463
Fax: +1 301 427 0033
Email: candyce.clark@noaa.gov
Dr Peter DEXTER
Co-President of JCOMM
International Oceans Policy Advisor
Australian Bureau of Meteorology
GPO Box 1289
Melbourne VIC 3001
Australia
Tel: +61 3 9669 4870
Fax: +61 3 9669 4725
Email: p.dexter@bom.gov.au
Dr. Alexander FROLOV
Co-President of JCOMM
Head, Russian Federal Service for
Hydrometeorology & Environmental
Monitoring (ROSGIDROMET)
12, Novovagankovsky Street 123995
MOSCOW
Russian Federation
Tel: +7 499 252 13 89
Fax: +7 499 795 22 16
Email: afrolov@mecom.ru
Ms Sissy IONA
Head HNODC
Hellenic Centre for Marine Research,
Anavyssos
Institute of Oceanography
46.7 Km, Athens-Sounio Ave.
PO BOX 712 Anavyssos
190 13 Attica
Greece
Tel: +30 22910 76367
Fax: +30 22910 76347
Email: sissy@hnodc.hcmr.gr
Dr Ming JI
Director, Ocean Prediction Center
NOAA/NCEP
5200 Auth Road, Room 410
CAMP SPRING MD 20746-4304
United States
Tel: +1 301 763 8000 x 7400
Fax: +1 301 763 8085
Email: Ming.Ji@noaa.gov
Dr Eric LINDSTROM
Physical Oceanography Program Scientist
NASA Headquarters
Earth Science Division, Room 3D74
Science Mission Directorate
NASA Headquarters
Mail Suite 3B74
300 E Street SW
Washington DC 20546
United States
Tel: +1 202 358 4540
Fax: +1 202 358 2770
Email: eric.j.lindstrom@nasa.gov
Mr Ali MAFIMBO
Senior Assistant Director
Kenya Meteorological Department
P.O. Box 30259
Nairobi 00100
Kenya
Tel: +254 20 386 7880
Fax: +254 20 387 6955
Email: mafimbo@yahoo.com
Mr David MELDRUM
Research Fellow, Technology Development
Scottish Association for Marine Science
Scottish Marine Institute
Oban, Scotland
PA37 1QA
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 1631 559 273
Fax: +44 1631 559 001
Email: dtm@sams.ac.uk
- 21 -
Invited Experts
Secretariats
Dr Jean-Louis FELLOUS
Past Co-President JCOMM
Executive Director, Committee on Space
Research (COSPAR)
c/o CNES
2 Place Maurice-Quentin
75039 Paris Cedex 01
France
Tel: +33 1 44 76 75 10
Fax: +33 1 44 76 74 37
Email: Jean-Louis.Fellous@cosparhq.cnes.fr
Dr Thorkild AARUP
Technical Secretary of GLOSS
Intergovernmental Oceanographic
Commission of UNESCO
1 rue Miollis
75732 Paris cedex 15
France
Tel: +33 1 45 68 40 19
Fax: +33 1 45 68 58 12
Email: t.aarup@unesco.org
Dr. David HALPERN
Senior Advisor, NASA Earth Science
Research
NASA Headquarters
Earth Science Division, 3B74
NASA Headquarters
300 E Street SW
Washington DC 20546
United States
Tel: +1 202 358 1109
Email: david.halpern@nasa.gov
Dr D. E. HARRISON
NOAA Pacific Marine Environmental
Laboratory
7600 Sand Point Way NE
Seattle WA 98115
United States
Tel: +1 206 526 6225
Fax: +1 206 526 6744
Email: d.e.harrison@noaa.gov
Prof Shao Hua LIN
Director Honorary
National Marine Data and Information Service
No. 93, Liuwei Road
300171 Tainjin
Hedong District
China
Tel: +86 22 2401 0803
Fax: +86 22 240 10926 / +86-22-24010820
Email: shlin@mail.nmdis.gov.cn
Mr Greg REED
Australian Ocean Data Centre Joint Facility
Fleet Headquarters Wylde Street Building 89
Garden Island Potts Point NSW 2011
Australia
Tel: +61 2 9359 3141
Fax: +61 2 9359 3120
Email: greg@metoc.gov.au
Dr Keith ALVERSON
Head of Section, Ocean Observations and
Services
Intergovernmental Oceanographic
Commission of UNESCO
1 rue Miollis
75732 Paris cedex 15
France
Tel: +33 1 45 68 40 42
Fax: +33 1 45 68 58 13
Email: k.alverson@unesco.org
Mr Edgard CABRERA
Chief, Ocean Affairs Division
World Meteorological Organization
7bis, avenue de la Paix
Case Postale 2300
1211 Geneva
Switzerland
Tel: +41 22 730 82 37
Fax: +41 22 730 81 28
Email: ecabrera@wmo.int
Mr Etienne CHARPENTIER
Scientific Officer
World Meteorological Organization
Observing and Information Systems
Department
Observing Systems Division
World Meteorological Organization
7bis, av. de la Paix
Case Postale 2300
1211 Genève 2
Switzerland
Tel: +41 22 730 82 23
Fax: +41 22 730 81 28
Email: ECharpentier@wmo.int
Dr Ehrlich DESA
Head of Section, Capacity Development
Intergovernmental Oceanographic
Commission of UNESCO
1 rue Miollis
75732 Paris cedex 15
- 22 -
France
Tel: +33 1 45 68 40 16
Fax: +33 1 45 68 58 12
Email: e.desa@unesco.org
Dr Albert FISCHER
Programme Specialist
Intergovernmental Oceanographic
Commission of UNESCO
1 rue Miollis
75732 Paris cedex 15
France
Tel: +33 1 45 68 40 40
Fax: +33 1 45 68 58 13
Email: a.fischer@unesco.org
Dr Boram LEE
Programme Specialist
Intergovernmental Oceanographic
Commission of UNESCO
1 rue Miollis
75732 Paris cedex 15
France
Tel: +33 1 45 68 39 88
Fax: +33 1 45 68 58 12
Email: b.lee@unesco.org
Mr Peter PISSIERSSENS
Head, IOC Project Office for IODE
UNESCO/IOC Project Office for IODE
Wandelaarkaai 7 - Pakhuis 61
B-8400 Oostende
Belgium
Tel: +32 59 340158
Fax: +32 59 79 5220
Email: p.pissierssens@unesco.org
Dr Buruhani S. NYENZI
Manager
High-Level Taskforce on Global Framework
for Climate Services Secretariat
Weather and Disaster Risk Reduction
Department
World Meteorological Organization
7 bis, avenue de la Paix
CH-1211 GENEVE 2,
SWITZERLAND
Tel: +41-22-730-8273
Fax: +41-22-730-8128
Email: BNyenzi@wmo.int
Dr Luis VALDES
Chief of Section for Ocean Science
Intergovernmental Oceanographic
Commission of UNESCO
1 rue Miollis
75732 Paris cedex 15
France
Tel: +33 1 45 68 40 11
Fax: +33 1 45 68 58 12
Email: jl.valdes@unesco.org
Dr Wendy WATSON-WRIGHT
Executive Secretary IOC
Assistant Director General of UNESCO for IOC
Intergovernmental Oceanographic
Commission of UNESCO
1 rue Miollis
75732 Paris cedex 15
France
Tel: +33 1 45 68 39 83
Fax: +33 1 45 68 58 10
Email: w.watson-wright@unesco.org
_____________
- 23 -
Annex II
AGENDA
1
1.1
1.2
1.3
Organization of the Session
Opening
Adoption of the agenda
Working arrangements
2
Reports by Co-Presidents and Secretariats
3
3.1
3.2
Intersessional Activities, Plans, and Deliverables
Programme Areas (PAs)
Cross-cutting activities within JCOMM
4
4.1
4.2
Scientific and Technical Support
Scientific and operational requirements
Standards, best practices and guides
5
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
Priority Issues for the Intersessional Period
WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS), WMO Information System (WIS)
and IOC/IODE Ocean Data Portal (ODP)
Maritime Safety Services
Marine/Oceanographic Hazards
Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS)
Legacy of the International Polar Year (IPY) and polar observations/services
6
6.1
6.2
6.3
Strategic and Structural Issues
JCOMM Collaboration with IOC-WMO and External Programmes and Projects
JCOMM Strategy
Structural and related management issues
7
Logistical Preparation for JCOMM-IV
8
Any Other Business
9
Closure of the Session
_____________
- 24 -
Annex III
STATUS OF JCOMM WORKPLAN 2010-2013 (decided at JCOMM-III)
As of November 2010
Reference
(JCOMM-III
report)
Para 5.2.4
Task
Organizational
Coordinate the implementation of any actions referred to JCOMM by
the OceanObs’09 and the post-conference Working Group on the
integration of the ocean observing system
Para 6.1.17 &
6.1.19
Liaise with the WMO Space Programme and address the UNESCO/IOC
Strategy for the use of Remote Sensing in oceanography, and other
international groups dealing with satellite issues
Para 6.2.3 &
Recommendation
1 (JCOMM-III)
Establish a network of Regional Marine Instrument Centres (RMIC) and
a mechanism for the formal WMO and UNESCO/IOC designation of a
RMIC
Para 6.3.6
Review new observing technology developments and liaise with
relevant coordination groups with a view to incorporating them in the
work programme
Para 6.4.3
Expand the activities of the JCOMMOPS
Para 8.2.1
Assess and categorize Members/Member States needs to facilitate their
inclusion in its capacity building work programmes
Para 9.1.3 & 9.1.8
Keep the JCOMM Capacity Building principles under review and revise
the JCOMM Capacity Building strategy
Para 9.1.6
Develop an expanded partnership with COMET
By whom
Target
Status / reference
Management
Ongoing
Committee, relevant
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 4.1)
Programme Areas
Observations, Data
Management, and
Pending & to pursue
Services and
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.2)
Forecasting Systems
Programme Area
Observations
Programme Area and
Initiated &implemented
Continuing
Management
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Committee
Observations
Programme Area and
Initiated &implemented
Continuing
Management
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Committee
Observations
Programme Area and Intersessional Pending & to pursue
Management
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Committee
Co-Presidents and
Before
Pending & to pursue
Management
JCOMM-IV
(MAN-VIII, item 3.2)
Committee
Activity leader on
ongoing & to review
Capacity Building,
ASAP
(MAN-VIII, item 3.2,
Management
6.2)
Committee
Management
Pending & to pursue
ASAP
Committee
(MAN-VIII, item 3.2)
- 25 -
Reference
(JCOMM-III
report)
Task
By whom
Target
Status / reference
Para 9.2.2
Develop a mechanism to further interact with the WMO Regional
Associations and GOOS Regional Alliances (GRAs)
Management
Committee
ASAP
Pending & to pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 3.2,
6.1)
Para 11.0.1 &
11.2.1
Develop a framework to address quality management aspects in the
overall context of developing standards and recommended practices on
met-ocean data acquisition and delivery of services and products, and
establish a policy for the systematic review of relevant publications
Management
Committee
Intersessional
period
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.2,
4.2)
Intersessional
period
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3,4)
Intersessional
period
Pending & to pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 6.1)
Intersessional
period
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 6.1)
Para 13.1.4
Para 13.1.6
Para 13.1.7 &
13.1.9
Para 13.1.8
Para 13.1.11 &
13.1.12
Para 13.1.30
Para 13.1.32
Para 13.2.2
Maintain oversight on DRR-related activities
Consider the possible recognition of a role of a specialized regional
centre might have in the cascading forecasting process for the marine
forecasting services aspects, and specify the criteria for the designation
of a RSMC with activity specialization in marine meteorology, to be
included in the GDPFS
Facilitate and strengthen relationships with WMO Technical
Commissions and UNESCO/IOC programmes, taking into account
relevant JCOMM team activities and pilot projects
Study the possibility to implement the ocean and marine meteorological
services via the WMO Regional Climate Centres
Collaborate with TOWS-WG wherever possible to the enhancement of
TWS as a component of a coordinated and comprehensive marine
hazards warning system and keep Members/Member States informed
on the progress
Consult with WCRP on the themes and modalities for a stronger
cooperation with a focus on activities that contribute to the
implementation of main outcomes of WCC-3 and OceanObs’09
Take the lead in implementing the actions to secure the IPY marine
observing systems legacy as a contribution to WIGOS development
Review progress and activities associated with the UN Conventions and
take actions as appropriate
Management
Committee, Services
and Forecasting
Systems Programme
Ares
Co-Presidents and
Management
Committee, in
collaboration with
CBS/GDPFS
Co-Presidents and
Management
Committee
Management
Committee
Intersessional Pending & to pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 5.4,6.1)
period
Management
Committee
Intersessional
Ongoing
period
(MAN-VIII, item 5.2,6.1)
Management
Committee
Intersessional
period
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 4.1)
Management
Committee
Management
Committee and
Secretariats
Intersessional
period
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 5.5)
Continuing
Pending & to pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 6.1)
- 26 -
Reference
(JCOMM-III
report)
Para 13.2.5
Para 13.2.6
13.2.7
Task
Establish and improve collaboration with organizations and institutions,
including aid agencies, to leverage opportunities for enhancing
observing systems and services capabilities in the developing world,
particularly in coastal areas
& Maintain oversight on WMO and UNESCO/IOC marine-related activities
in GEO and activities related to satellite systems for ocean observations
Para 13.2.8
Develop an approach for contributing to WMO and UNESCO/IOC
activities towards enhanced collaboration with private sector
Para 14.1.2
Finalize the JCOMM Strategy document 2010-2013
Para 14.1.3
Seek for external funding for the implementation of the JCOMM work
programme
Para 8.3.14
Para 5.1.2
Para 6.1.1
Para 6.1.1
Para 6.1.4
Maintain oversight on WCC-3’s follow-up activities, with a view to
determining JCOMM’s contribution to the GFCS and to include it in its
work programme, when required
Observations
Address the met-ocean observational data requirements as part of the
work programmes, in coordination with CBS as appropriate
Continue to work towards ECV-based metrics and keep the OPA
implementation goals document under review and up-to-date
Develop the OPA work programme according to the need to enhance
the partnerships between research institutes and operational services
Propose a strategy for the OPA to enhance deployment opportunities
By whom
Target
Status / reference
Management
Committee
Continuing
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 6.1)
Continuing
Pending & to pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 6.1)
Intersessional
period
Pending & to pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 6.1)
ASAP
To pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 6.2)
Continuing
Ongoing *& to pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 2, 6.2)
Ongoing
To pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 5.4)
Ongoing
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Management
Committee
Management
Committee, in
collaboration with
CBS OPAG on PWS
and GSSC
Co-Presidents and
Management
Committee
Co-Presidents,
Management
Committee and
Secretariats, in
collaboration with
potential donors and
stakeholders
Management
Committee
Observations and
Data Management
Programme Areas
Observations
Coordination Group
Observations
Coordination Group
Observations
Coordination Group
Ongoing
ASAP
ASAP
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
To pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
- 27 -
Reference
(JCOMM-III
report)
Para 6.1.5
Para 6.1.6
Para 6.1.9
Para 6.1.10
Para 6.1.11.4
Para 6.1.11.5
Para 6.1.11.7
Para 6.1.11.7
Para 6.1.11.10
Para 6.1.12.1
Para 6.1.13
6.1.14
Para 6.1.16
Task
By whom
Find a funding mechanism by which JCOMMOPS can partner with
other agencies (e.g. space agencies) for the benefit of JCOMM
Complete the oceanographer’s and marine meteorologist’s cookbook
for submitting data in real time and in deployed mode
Translate the outcome and recommendations of OceanObs’09 into an
updated version of the JCOMM OPA implementation goals
Consider coastal requirements in the OPA work programme, taking into
account the need of developing/least developed coastal countries
Observations
Coordination Group
Observations
Coordination Group
Observations
Programme Area
Observations
Programme Area
Observations
Coordination Group,
Ship Observations
Team and OOPC
Ship Observations
Team
Secure the support necessary to maintain and if possible expand the
existing VOS fleet
Coordinate the development of a universally accepted solution for the
ship call-sign masking for consideration by the WMO Executive Council
Further develop the guidelines on standards for instruments and high
quality best practices for the Voluntary Observing Fleet and publish
them as a JCOMM Technical Report
Document VOS best practices to include the ocean variables managed
under the SOT Ship Of Opportunity Implementation Panel (SOOPIP)
Evaluate the technical implications related to the compatibility between
AIS equipments and observation stations
Assist the Argo programme in deploying floats to achieve and maintain
the array’s design requirements
& Continue to be involved in the developments of observing systems in
Polar Regions
Add wave observations as a key variable to be derived from satellite
observations
Ship Observations
Team
Ship Observations
Team
Ship Observations
Team
Observations
Coordination Group,
Data Buoy
Cooperation Panel
and Ship
Observations Te
Observations
Programme Area
Observations
Coordination Group
Target
ASAP
ASAP
ASAP
ASAP
Status / reference
To pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
To pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
To pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Ongoing
To pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
ASAP
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
ASAP
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
ASAP
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
ASAP
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
To pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
- 28 -
Reference
(JCOMM-III
report)
Task
By whom
Observations
Coordination Group,
in consultation with
Produce a document that provides an integrated (space and in situ)
Para 6.1.20
Data Management,
observing strategy for a number of geophysical variables
and Services and
Forecasting Systems
Programme Areas
Coordinate the collection of information on satellite data requirements
Para 6.1.21
JCOMMOPS
and planning, and make it available via the JCOMMOPS website
Update the content of relevant publications taking into account the
Para 6.2.1, 6.2.7 &
Observations
increasing need to enhance the quality of data through appropriate
12.7
Programme Area
standards in order to address the climate requirements
Develop high quality best practices for the Voluntary Observing Fleet
Ship Observations
Para 6.2.2
with the goal of publishing them as a JCOMM Technical Report
Team
Observations
Programme Area and
Para 6.2.2
Identify ways for enhance JCOMM linkage with manufacturers
its Panels and
Groups
Compile and synthesize activities related to satellite data
Observations
Para 6.3.3
telecommunication systems and data collection options under all
Coordination Group
programmes and panels of OPA
Observations
Para 6.5.1
Implement the priority activities for the OPA defined by the Commission
Programme Area
Continue supporting activities for extending the network of sea level
GLOSS Group of
Para 8.2.6
measuring gauges, as well as increasing the number of those reporting
Experts
in real-time, and other sea-level observing techniques
Take the appropriate steps, including establishing partnerships between
ocean research and operational communities, to facilitate the
Observations
Para 13.1.16
implementation of the actions to improve ocean observing systems
Programme Area
arose from the Progress Report on the implementation of GCOS in
support of the UNFCCC 2004-2008
Data Management
Data Management
Para 7.1.1
Routinely review and update the Data Management Plan
Coordination Group
Target
Status / reference
ASAP
To pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
ASAP
To pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Intersessional
To pursue
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
To pursue
Intersessional
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Continuing
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Intersessional
Ongoing
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Intersessional
Ongoing
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Continuing
To pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
Intersessional
To pursue
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.1)
period
Intersessional
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.3)
period
- 29 -
Reference
(JCOMM-III
report)
Para 7.1.2 & 7.3.1
Para 7.1.3
Para 7.2.1
Para 7.2.2
Para 7.2.3
Para 7.2.5
Para 7.4.1
Para 10.1.2
Para 10.1.5
Para 11.2.2 &
Recommendation
4 (JCOMM-III)
Para 13.1.34
Para 5.0.1 & 5.1.2
Task
Continue and further strengthen the collaboration with the IODE of
UNESCO/IOC based upon complementarity of strengths and expertise
Develop an appropriate documentation that describes the template for
the Marine Community Profile
By whom
Data Management
Programme Area
Data Management
Programme Area
Expert Team on
Marine Climatology,
Review if the accuracy of the GPS position and time is being reported in
Ship Observations
coded and climate reports
Team and Task
Team on Table
Driven Codes
Expert Team on
Organize CLIMAR-IV and MARCDAT-III
Marine Climatology
Expert Team on
Modernize the Marine Climatological Summaries Scheme
Marine Climatology
Expert Team on
Decide how the manual observations on “rigs and platforms” should be Marine Climatology,
preserved and archived
Ship Observations
Team
Implement the priority activities for the DMPA defined by the
Data Management
Commission
Programme Area
Contribute to the development of a WIS data representation system Data Management
policy
Coordination Group
Data Management
Assist Members/Member States in the WIS centre designation process
Coordination Group
Identify the standards that are widely applicable by the marine JCOMM-IODE Expert
meteorological and oceanographic communities for inclusion in the
Team on Data
WMO and UNESCO/IOC publications and/or submission to appropriate
Management
standards bodies such as ISO
Practices
Assist the WMO EC-PORS in facilitating acquisition, exchange and Data Management
archiving of observational data from Polar Regions
Programme Area
Services and Forecasting Systems
Regularly review of the observational data requirements for met-ocean
Services and
applications, where feasible through Observing System Experiments,
Forecasting Systems
Observing System Simulation Experiments and various test-beds for
Programme Area
the verification of impacts in a range of application areas
Target
Continuing
ASAP
Status / reference
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.3)
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.3)
Intersessional
Ongoing
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.3)
Intersessional
Ongoing
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.3)
Intersessional
Ongoing
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.3)
Intersessional
Ongoing
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.3)
Intersessional
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.3)
period
Ongoing
Continuing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.3)
Ongoing
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.3)
Intersessional
Ongoing
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.3)
Intersessional
Ongoing
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.3)
Ongoing
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
- 30 -
Reference
(JCOMM-III
report)
Task
By whom
Target
Status / reference
Services and
Participate in the WMO/CBS Rolling Review of Requirements and Forecasting Systems
Ongoing
Para 5.21.2
Ongoing
update the Statement of Guidance for Met-ocean Applications
Programme Area and
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
JCOMMOPS
Para 8.1.2, 8.1.3 & Assist in and guide the transition of ocean forecasting systems from
Expert Team on
Ongoing
Continuing
Recommendation research to operations, and develop a JCOMM Guide to Operational Operational Ocean
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
5 (JCOMM-III)
Ocean Forecasting Systems
Forecasting Systems
Expert Team on
Operational Ocean
Forecasting Systems;
Keep under review the ocean observational requirements for
Services and
Ongoing
Para 8.1.3
operational ocean forecasting systems and ensure that interoperable
Continuing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
Forecasting Systems,
standards and best practices are developed
Observations and
Data Management
Programme Areas
Expert Team on Wind
Ongoing
Para 8.1.5
Expand the wave forecast verification scheme
Waves and Storm
Continuing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
Surges
Expert Team on Wind
Address the establishment of a network of moored wave measuring
Waves and Storm
Ongoing
buoys to cover sparse ocean areas where storms are generated and
Para 8.1.6
Ongoing
Surges, Data Buoy
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
propagated
Cooperation Panel
Continue to co-sponsor and co-organize: (a) International Workshops
Expert Team on Wind
on Wave Analysis and Forecasting and Coastal Hazard Symposia; (b)
Intersessional
Ongoing
Waves and Storm
Para 8.1.7 & 8.2.1
Scientific and Technical Symposium on Storm Surge; and (c) training
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
Surges
workshops on storm surge and wave forecasting
Promote the implementation of operational specialized numerical Expert Team on Wind
Ongoing
Para 8.1.9
Ongoing
prediction systems on wave and storm surge, and the use of
Waves and Storm
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
probabilistic prediction products
Surges
Expert Team on Wind
Review the existing guides and manuals, and continue to develop
Ongoing
Para 8.1.11
Continuing
Waves and Storm
technical guidance material on wave and storm surge forecasting
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
Surges
Para 8.2.3 & 8.2.4,
Provide technical advice, guidance and coordination in the development Expert Team on Wind
Ongoing
&
Intersessional
of Demonstration Projects for building integrated global and regional
Waves and Storm
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2,
Recommendation
period
storm surge watch schemes within a multi-hazard framework
Surges
5.3)
6 (JCOMM-III)
- 31 -
Reference
(JCOMM-III
report)
Para 8.2.5
Para 8.2.7 &
13.1.5
Para 8.2.9
Para 8.2.9
Para 8.2.12
Para 8.3.2 &
8.3.13
Task
Continue to develop regional and global wave and storm surge
climatologies as a measure of risk assessment for marine hazards and
assist Members/Member States in developing their own databases and
hazard analysis
Assist in the implementation of the marine component of the SWFDP
and use the concept to further develop and implement marine
forecasting products and services in regions subject to marine hazards
Consider ocean forecasting systems in support of marine pollution
monitoring and response, and maritime search and rescue, in ETOOFS
workplan
Monitor implementation and operations of the Marine Pollution
Emergency Response Support System (MPERSS) and assist
Members/Member States in implementing their services in support of
marine accident emergencies
Establish collaborating arrangements with the CBS Coordination Group
on Nuclear Emergency Response Activities to address common issues
related to environmental emergencies
By whom
Target
Status / reference
Expert Team on Wind
Ongoing
Intersessional
Waves and Storm
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2,
period
Surges
5.3)
Expert Team on Wind
Ongoing
Intersessional
Waves and Storm
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2,
period
Surges
5.3)
Expert Team on
Intersessional
Ongoing
Operational Ocean
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
Forecasting Systems
Expert Team on
Maritime Safety
Services
Continuing
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2,
5.2)
Services and
Ongoing
ASAP
Forecasting Systems
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
Programme Area
Expert Team on
Maritime Safety
Ongoing
Develop product specification for met-ocean variables, in accordance
Services, Expert
Intersessional
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2,
with IHO standards
Team on Sea Ice, in
period
5.2)
consultation with IMO
and IHO
Para 8.3.3 &
Organize a training workshop on maritime safety services, focused on
11.1.2 &
Recommendations Quality Management Systems for the provision of met-ocean services
for international maritime navigation
7 (JCOMM-III) &
8 (JCOMM-III)
Assist the METAREA Issuing Services concerned in implementing their
Para 8.3.4
operating plans for the provision of marine meteorological and
oceanographic services for the Arctic Region
Expert Team on
Maritime Safety
Services, and WMO
Secretariat
Expert Team on
Maritime Safety
Services
Done
Intersessional
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2,
period
5.2)
Before 2011
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2,
5.2)
- 32 -
Reference
(JCOMM-III
report)
Task
By whom
Para 8.3.6
Develop proposals for inclusion of information on complex sea states in
weather and sea bulletins
Para 8.3.7
Propose sea ice specifications for Maritime Safety Information to be
disseminated via SafetyNET and international NAVTEX services
Para 8.3.9 & 9.1.4
Continue to co-sponsor and co-organize Ice Analysts Workshops
Para 8.3.10
Keep under review requirements for sea ice observations and services
Para 8.3.11
Contribute to the development of coupled sea ice-ocean-atmosphere
numerical models and sea ice forecasting and data assimilation
techniques
Para 8.3.12
Review the GDSIDB and provide guidance to Members/Member States
submitting data to this database
Para 8.4.1
Implement the priority activities for the SFSPA defined by the
Commission
Para 13.1.3
Develop technical guidance material on standard methodologies for
monitoring, archiving, analysis and mapping of marine-related hazards
_____________
Expert Team on
Maritime Safety
Services, Expert
Team on Wind
Waves and Storm
Surges
Expert Team on Sea
Ice, Expert Team on
Maritime Safety
Services
Expert Team on Sea
Ice
Expert Team on Sea
Ice
Expert Team on Sea
Ice, Expert Team on
Operational Ocean
Forecasting Systems
Expert Team on Sea
Ice
Services and
Forecasting Systems
Programme Area
Expert Team on
Marine Climatology,
Expert Team on Wind
Waves and Storm
Surges
Target
Status / reference
Ongoing
Intersessional
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2,
period
5.2)
Ongoing
Intersessional
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2,
period
5.2)
Intersessional
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
period
Ongoing
Intersessional
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
Intersessional
Ongoing
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
Continuing
Ongoing
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
Intersessional
Ongoing
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
Intersessional
Ongoing
period
(MAN-VIII, item 3.1.2)
- 33 -
Annex IV
Revised JCOMM Terms of Reference (ToRs)
The Joint WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology (JCOMM)
shall:
(i)
Coordinate, develop and recommend standards and procedures for the work of
Members/Member States in the overall collection, exchange, access, understanding,
application and delivery of marine meteorological and oceanographic data, information,
forecasts and warnings upon which marine meteorological and oceanographic services and
marine-related decision-making processes are based.
(ii)
Coordinate, develop and recommend standards and procedures for the work of
Members/Member States in the overall collection, management, exchanges and archival of
high-quality marine meteorological and oceanographic data, information and products, on
which climate studies, predictions and services, as well as impact and adaptation strategies,
are based.
(iii)
Promote and facilitate the international sharing of implementing experience, transfer of
technology and research uptake, and support relevant education and training to meet the
capacity development needs of national agencies and of other organizations that play a role
in the provision of marine meteorological and oceanographic services.
In this regard, the Commission will give special attention to education and training, and technology
transfer initiatives on marine meteorological and oceanographic data, products and services that
respond to the needs of, and build capacity in, the developing countries with particular emphasis
on the Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States. Additionally, the
Commission will support cooperation among WMO, IOC and other Untied Nations agencies that
are members of UN-Oceans, the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), the International
Council for Science (ICSU) and other governmental and non-governmental organizations, the
private sector as well as user organizations, on matters related to marine meteorology and
oceanography.
Within its terms of responsibility as defined above, and consistent with the IOC Statutes, the Joint
WMO/IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology shall have
responsibilities common to all WMO Technical Commissions as defined in WMO General
Regulation 179, and shall structure its work to address societal outcomes as envisaged by the
planning documents of the parent organizations, by creating an operating plan focusing on the
areas identified within its specific terms of reference and addressing appropriate (or applicable)
strategic thrusts and expected results.
__________
- 34 -
Annex V
Proposed Terms of Reference for
a JCOMM cross-cutting Task Team on Satellite Data Requirements
JCOMM-III recognized that satellite data are essential for providing global high-resolution surface
data from the world oceans, and are the primary, and often only source of information for key
ocean areas where in situ observations are sparse or absent. In situ and satellite observations are
complementary for data assimilation in the numerical models for ocean mesoscale forecasting,
weather prediction, and reanalyses to support research of both. Some variables cannot presently
be easily derived from satellite products (e.g. sea level pressure, surface marine air temperature)
while other variables observed by satellites require in situ ocean observations for ground (or
surface) truth, bias correction, and the validation of satellite products. It is essential that the
measurements returned through both in situ and space-based systems are properly documented,
completely collected, and archived. Both archives must be discoverable and equivalently
accessible so the mutual benefits gained from combining their strengths can be easily achieved. In
addition, satellite communication capability is essential for modern telecommunication of both in
situ and satellite remotely sensed environmental data. This capability needs to increase to
continually address the demands higher resolution data transmission.
Thus, the establishment of a cross cutting task team on satellite data requirements was
recommended to improve the integration of satellite and in situ data including real-time systems
and the International Comprehensive Ocean-Atmosphere Data Set (ICOADS). Considering that
GCOS is already addressing ocean satellite data requirements for climate, the Task Team should
specially focus its efforts on the JCOMM specific non-climate requirements (maritime safety, wind
waves and storm surges, ocean forecasting, etc.).
The JCOMM cross-cutting Task Team on satellite data requirements shall liaise and collaborate
with appropriate JCOMM Expert Teams and other groups or projects as appropriate, and
particularly with the CBS Expert Team on Satellite Utilization and Products (ET-SUP), and the
Coordination Group for Meteorological Satellites (CGMS), and Committee on Earth Observation
Satellites (CEOS), and:
1. assess and document the common JCOMM non-climate requirements for achieving
enhanced integration between in situ and satellite ocean observing systems; these
requirements should begin with current system deployments and look forward toward
known forthcoming systems;
2. examine format interoperability and data homogenization issues, and make
recommendations for the implementation of a system or standards so that satellite and in
situ data can be easily incorporated in both research and operational activities;
3. propose mechanisms for the feedback of information relating to data quality derived from
satellite products to in situ observing platforms operators;
4. prepare a final report for presentation to documenting the findings of the Task Team
including recommendations for improving the integration and comparison of satellite and in
situ data;
5. propose impactful communication processes by which the stakeholders can be informed
about the Task Team activities.
Membership:
• Leader:
Johnny Johannessen
• Satellite community: Craig Donlon, Jean-Louis Fellous, David Halpern, Olivier Lauret
• In situ community:
Aida Alvera, David Berry, Val Swail, Scott Woodruff
__________
- 35 -
Annex VI
FORMAL ADOPTION OF THE RMIC AND INCLUSION IN THE CIMO GUIDE
(as approved by MAN-VIII)
According to the Terms of Reference of a WMO-IOC Regional Marine Instrument Centre (RMIC),
the mechanism for formal WMO and UNESCO/IOC designation of RMICs implies the following:
(a) Governance for defining the functions and adoption of an RMIC is proposed by JCOMM
and endorsed by the WMO and UNESCO/IOC Executive Councils;
(b) A candidate RMIC is required to produce a statement of compliance, list capabilities of the
proposed centre, state the suite of instrument expertise offered, state the formal
commitment to voluntarily host the centre, and demonstrate capability to JCOMM.
The approach proposed by JCOMM is the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The RMIC evaluates the extent to which it will be addressing the RMIC requirement in
terms of capabilities and functions as described in the RMIC Terms of Reference.
Once the candidate RMIC believes that it meets the requirements to a sufficient
extent, its Director writes to the JCOMM Co-President to formally state the host
commitment to voluntarily run and operate the RMIC on behalf of the WMO and IOC,
and to request that the RMIC be listed in the list of RMICs through appropriate
channels. In doing so, the candidate RMIC also provides for a statement of
compliance in terms of RMIC capabilities and corresponding functions as described in
the Annex of the RMIC Terms of Reference. The list of variables measured by
specific instruments for which expertise will be offered as part of the RMIC activities is
also provided. According to the ToR, an RMIC must apply international standards
applicable for calibration laboratories, such as ISO/IEC 17025, to the extent possible.
The Candidate RMIC will indicate to what extent it will meet these requirements. The
letter should be copied to the Permanent Representative of the host country with the
WMO, the IOC Action Addressee for the host country, the Secretary General of WMO,
the Executive Secretary of IOC, and the President of the WMO Regional Association
where the RMIC is located.
Capability is also demonstrated by means of a training workshop on Marine
instrumentation to be organized within 12 months of the request; resources should be
committed by the host country for providing financial assistance to participants of
developing countries in the region.
As the JCOMM Observations Coordination Group (OCG) will be the primary advisory
body for JCOMM regarding the RMICs, the JCOMM Co-President requests the OCG
to evaluate and verify the capabilities of the proposed Centre.
The OCG evaluates the request and advises whether the candidate RMIC should be
endorsed. The OCG may wish to delegate this work to individuals and/or groups
acting on its behalf (e.g. one of the component teams, depending on the nature of the
proposed centre), but any advice and proposal to JCOMM should still be assessed by
and come through the OCG. OCG will also conduct reviews of performance and
capabilities at the required intervals.
If endorsed by the OCG, and depending on timing, the latter makes an informed
recommendation to the JCOMM Management Committee (MAN) or the JCOMM CoPresidents (acting on behalf of the Commission) and invites them to provide further
advice to the next JCOMM Session.
If endorsed by MAN or the JCOMM Co-Presidents as appropriate, a recommendation
is passed to the next JCOMM Session, or depending on timing directly to the WMO
and IOC Executive Councils.
If endorsed by the JCOMM Session or the JCOMM Co-Presidents as appropriate, a
recommendation is passed to the WMO and IOC Executive Councils for including the
candidate in the list of RMICs.
- 36 -
•
•
•
If the JCOMM recommendations is approved by the WMO Executive Council, the
candidate RMIC is listed in the WMO Publication No. 8 (CIMO Guide) and becomes a
WMO RMIC;
If the JCOMM recommendation is approved by the IOC Executive, the candidate
becomes an IOC RMIC;
If the JCOMM recommendation is approved by both WMO and IOC Executive
Councils, the candidate becomes a joint WMO-IOC RMIC.
It is expected that this process, from submission of the RMIC proposal to the JCOMM CoPresident, to formal approval by either of both the WMO/IOC Executive Councils, may take from 6
to 12 months.
____________
- 37 -
Annex VII
LIST OF ACTIONS
Para
2.4
3.1.2
3.1.3
3.1.7 (i)
3.2.5 (i)
3.1.7 (ii)
Action
To report on the available resources within the WMOIOC regular budget for JCOMM, and on the required
EXB resources for JCOMM intersessional activities
To keep under review the implementation goals for the
networks, including an active cross-platform discussion
forum on new technologies, strategies for spatial
coverage and deployment, and standards and best
practices
To help international coordination of systematic global
biogeochemical and biological observations, including
the observation of the global ocean carbon cycle
To provide ocean observational requirements for
satellite agencies, to address the gap in the WMO
database
To define ocean observational requirement
stakeholders
3.1.7 (iii)
To complete the Storm Surge Guide publication
3.1.7 (iii)
4.2.6
To draft "process/procedure" for future
publication/revision of Guides/Manuals
3.1.7 (iv)
5.2.4
To be fully engaged in the IMO planning on future eNavigation, and MSI survey
3.1.7 (v)
To develop and undertake actions to track a long term
record of service improvement
3.1.10
To clarify ToR for cross-cutting Team on Satellite Data
Requirements
3.1.12
3.1.12
3.1.15
3.2.5 (ii)
3.2.8
4.1.2
4.1.7
4.1.8
4.1.9
to prepare a report on DBCP ToR Revision to become
responsible for the Rigs and Platforms
To establish coordination mechanisms between DBCP
and SOT for Rigs/Platforms issues
To plan trainings for the migration (to table driven codes
for the real time ocean data) and standard
encoding/decoding software
Support IOC by providing guidance to CGMS on ocean
activities through preparation of annual report on topic
of interest to JCOMM
To draft a procedure and template (web-publishable) for
regular reporting of the Commission’s capacity building
activities
To participate in and provide input to a workshop on
deep ocean observation requirements (28 March-2 April
2011)
To submit a report on “A Framework for Ocean
Observing” (report on follow-up to OceanObs’09) to
JCOMM-IV
To continuous coordination/cooperation with groups on
carbon/chemical/biological/ecosystem various
To contribute material for the WCRP Open Science
Conference, for a theme “Maintaining and enhancing
ocean observations, including sea ice”
By whom
When/target
Secretariats
immediate
OCG in
coordination with
other CGs
continuous
OCG with
JCOMMOPS
continuous
ETOOFS with TT
on Satellite Data
Requirements
JCOMM-IV
ETOOFS
MAN-IX
WMO Secretariat
in coordination with
ETWS
WMO Secretariat
with ETWS Chair
WMO Secretariat
with ETMSS and
ETSI
December 2010
SFSPA Teams
continuous
DMPA Coordinator
with Team
members
DBCP EB with
Secretariats
DBCP, SOT with
Secretariats
DMPA Coordinator,
A.L. Capacity
Building, IODE
February 2011
continuous
immediate
JCOMM-IV
As soon as
possible
continuous
A.L. Satellite Data
Requirements
continuous
A.L. Capacity
Building
MAN-IX
OPA Coordinator in
coordination with
OOPC Chair
Secretariats in
consultation with
Co-Presidents,
OOPC Chair
March 2011
JCOMM-IV
OCG
continuous
PA Coordinators
October 2011
- 38 Para
4.2.2
4.2.3
4.2.3
4.2.4
5.1.2
5.1.3
5.1.3
5.1.6
5.2.2
5.2.5
5.3.4
5.3.5
5.3.6
5.3.9
5.4.2
5.5.5
5.5.5
5.5.6
5.5.7
5.5.7
Action
To continue efforts to implement recommendations by
META-T Pilot Project
To document results of the META-T Pilot Project
(lessens learned, legacy recommendations, etc.)
To nominate a member responsible for updating
JCOMM Catalogue of Best Practices and Standards
To draft a resolution on establishing an RMIC in China,
for submission to the WMO and IOC Executive Bodies
in 2011
To review the draft Project Report of JCOMM Pilot
Project for WIGOS (JCOMM Technical Report No. 48)
and provide comments to WMO and IODE Secretariats
To consolidate a work plan addressing the legacy
recommendations of the JCOMM pilot project for
WIGOS
To seek funding for implementation of the integration of
ocean observations into WIGOS (recommendations by
the JCOMM Pilot Project for WIGOS), at WMO
Congress
To setup a plan to provide input to IOC Assembly in
2011, to recognize HMEI as non-governmental
organization (observer) at IOC
To find opportunities and plan accordingly for trainings
on the MSI for new Arctic METAREAs, in conjunction
with related workshops and meetings
To consider possible extension of the user requirements
for Arctic MSI, in establishing future work plans
To arrange a general agreement for CIFDP
implementation, at the national level, between the
relevant institutions in Dominican Republic and
Bangladesh
To build linkage between CIFDP and the IOC Project on
Enhancing Regional Capabilities for Coastal Hazards
Forecasting, IOC ICAM, and related activities under
Regional Tsunami Warning Systems
To revise CIFDP implementation plan with adjusted
timeline
To report on the progress of the IOC Project on
Enhancing Regional Capabilities for Coastal Hazards
To carry out related discussion with GFCS High Level
Task Force secretariat, in order to identify necessary
actions for GFCS High Level Task Force to request
specific contributions from the WMO Technical
Commissions including JCOMM
To review the possibilities for JCOMM role in PORS
activities, based on guidance by CG-XVI
To coordinate JCOMM input to and liaison with ECPORS
To address to the WMO Congress on the need for
additional resources for additional mandates (PORS,
WIGOS/WIS)
To draft intersessional workplans (2012-2016) including
E-PORS activities
To draft JCOMMOPS role in the work of EC-PORS, with
consideration on additional resources in need
By whom
DMCG in
coordination with
META-T PP Chair
META-T PP chair
with Secretariats
When/target
31 May 2011
As soon as
possible
DMCG
31 May 2011
Co-Presidents
January 2011
MAN members
31 December
2010
OCG and DMCG
As soon as
possible
Co-Presidents with
WMO Secretariat
WMO CG-XVI
OCG with IOC
Secretariat
March 2011
ETMSS
continuous
ETMSS and ETSI
continuous
WMO Secretariat
immediate
WMO and IOC
Secretariats
continuous
CIFDP PSG and
WMO Secretariat
IOC Secretariat
with project
advisory group
immediate
MAN-IX
WMO Secretariat
and Co-Presidents
As soon as
possible
Co-Presidents and
Secretariats
Following WMO
Cg-XVI
David Meldrum
ongoing
Co-Presidents and
WMO Secretrariat
WMO PTC (Feb
2010)
PA coordinators
OCG
Following WMO
Cg-XVI
Following WMO
Cg-XVI
- 39 Para
6.1.5
6.1.5
6.1.6
6.2.1
6.2.2
6.3.1
Action
By whom
When/target
To support the planning for and the implementation of
the Workshop on “Climate and Oceanic Fisheries”,
October 2011
To consider becoming a direct sponsor for the
Workshop on “Climate and Oceanic Fisheries”, October
2011
To identify 3-4 experts to participate in the workshop on
“Climate and Oceanic Fisheries”, to develop a more
detailed rationale and proposal for the joint expert team
on Climate and Fishery
To update JCOMM Strategy
To report to WMO and IOC governing bodies on the
progress of JCOMM Review preparation, to ask for their
guidance
To prepare a proposal on the JCOMM structure after
JCOMM-IV
Co-Presidents and
Secretariats, with
CAgM
As soon as
possible
IOC Ocean
Science Section
As soon as
possible
Co-Presidents, PA
Coordinators and
Secretariats
As soon as
possible
Co-Presidents
MAN-IX
Secretariats
WMO Cg and
IOC Assembly
Co-Presidents and
PA Coordinators
MAN-IX
Secretariats
As soon as
possible
Secretariats,
OOPC Chair and
Co-Presidents
As soon as
possible
all
continuous
WMO Secretariat
immediate
7.1
To advance the organization of JCOMM-IV
7.2
To investigate the possible organization of a scientific
and technical symposium within the JCOMM-IV session
8.2
9.1
To contribute to / submit articles for the JCOMM
Newsletter
To organize the MAN-IX, 6-9 September 2011
____________
- 40 -
Annex VIII
ACRONYMS AND OTHER ABBREVIATIONS
AusAID
BUFR
CAgM
CBS
CEOS
CGMS
CHy
CIFDP
CIMO
CSIRO
DBCP
DCPC
DMCG
DMPA
EC
ECMWF
EC-PORS
ECV
EGOS
ENC
EOV
ET
ETDMP
ETMC
ETMSS
ETOOFS
ET-WISC
ETSI
ETWS
FAO
GCOS
GCW
GEO
GFCS
GISC
GIPPS
GMDSS
GOOS
GTS
HMEI
I-GOOS
IABP
IFSOO-TT
ICAO
IMO
IOC
IODE
IPAB
IPCC
IPY
ISO
Australian Government Overseas Aid Program
Binary Universal Form for Representation of meteorological data
Commission for Agrometeorology (WMO)
Commission for Basic Systems (WMO)
Committee on Earth Observation Satellites
Coordination Group for Meteorological Satellites
Commission for Hydrology (WMO)
Joint JCOMM/CHy Coastal Inundation Forecasting Demonstration Project (WMO)
Commission for Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO)
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (Australia)
WMO-IOC Data Buoy Cooperation Panel (JCOMM OPA)
WIS Data Collection Product Centre (WMO)
Data Management Coordination Group (JCOMM)
Data Management Programme Area (JCOMM)
Executive Council (WMO and IOC)
European Centre for Medium-range Weather Forecasts
Executive Council Panel of Experts on Polar Observations, Research and Services
(WMO)
Essential Climate Variables (GCOS)
Evolution of the Global Observing System (WMO CBS)
Electronic Nautical Chart
Essential Ocean Variables (OceanObs’09)
Expert Team
Expert Team on Data Management Practices (JCOMM DMPA)
Expert Team on Marine Climatology (JCOMM DMPA)
Expert Team on Maritime Safety Services (JCOMM SFSPA)
Expert Team on Operational Ocean Forecast System (JCOMM SFSPA)
Expert Team on WIS GISCs and DCPCs (WMO CBS)
Expert Team on Sea Ice (JCOMM SFSPA)
Expert Team on Wind Waves and Storm Surges (JCOMM SFSPA)
Food and Agriculture Organization (UN)
Global Climate Observing System
Global Cryosphere Watch
Group on Earth Observations
Global Framework for Climate Services
Global Information System Centre (WMO WIS)
Global Integrated Polar Prediction System
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (IMO)
Global Ocean Observing System (IOC-WMO-UNEP-ICSU)
Global Telecommunication System (WWW)
Association of Hydro-Meteorological Equipment Industry
Intergovernmental Committee for GOOS (UNESCO/IOC-WMO-UNEP-ICSU)
International Arctic Buoy Programme
OceanObs’09 Task Team on an Integrated Framework for Sustained Ocean
Observations
International Civil Aviation Organization
International Maritime Organization (UN)
Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (of UNESCO, UN)
International Oceanographic Data and Information Exchange (IOC)
International Programme for Antarctic Buoys
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
International Polar Year
International Organization for Standardization
- 41 -
JCOMM
JCOMMOPS
MAN
MARINEMET
META-T
MSI
NCOSM
NMHS
NOAA
NWP
OCG
ODP
ODS
OOPC
OPA
PA
PP
PTC
QMF
QMS
RMIC
RMTC
RNODC
RRR
SAON
SCG
SFSPA
SOC
SoG
SOOS
SOT
SOLAS
SPA
SWFDP
SWH
ToR
TT
UN
UNESCO
UNFCCC
VOS
VOSClim
WCC
WCRP
WDIS
WIGOS
WIS
WG
WMO
WWW
Joint WMO-IOC Technical Commission for Oceanography and Marine Meteorology
JCOMM in situ Observations Programme Support Centre
Management Committee (JCOMM)
Pilot project on Marine Meteorology in West Africa (WMO)
Water Temperature Metadata Pilot Project (JCOMM)
Maritime Safety Information
National Centre of Ocean Standards and Metrology (China)
National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (WMO)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (USA)
Numerical Weather Prediction
Observations Coordination Group (JCOMM)
Ocean Data Portal (IOC/IODE)
Ocean Data Standards (JCOMM-IODE)
Ocean Observations Panel for Climate (GOOS-GCOS-WCRP)
Observations Programme Area (JCOMM)
Programme Area (JCOMM)
Pilot project
Meeting of the Presidents of Technical Commissions (WMO)
Quality Management Framework
Quality Management System
WMO-IOC Regional Marine Instrument Centre
Regional Meteorological Training Centre (WMO)
Responsible National Oceanographic Data Centre (JCOMM)
Rolling Review of Requirements (WMO)
Sustaining Arctic Observing Networks
Services and Forecasting Systems Coordination Group (JCOMM)
Services and Forecasting Systems Programme Area (JCOMM)
Specialized Oceanographic Centre (JCOMM)
Statement of Guidance (WMO RRR)
Southern Ocean Observing System
Ship Observations Team (OPA)
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea
Services and Forecasting Systems Programme Area (JCOMM)
Severe Weather Forecasting Demonstration Project (WMO)
Significant Wave Height
Terms of References
Task Team
United Nations
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UN)
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
Voluntary Observing Ship
Volunteer Observing Ship Climate Project (JCOMM)
World Climate Conference
World Climate Research Programme (WMO-IOC-ICSU)
WIGOS Development and Implementation Strategy (WMO)
WMO Integrated Global Ocean Observing System
WMO Information System
Working Group
World Meteorological Organization (UN)
World Weather Watch (WMO)
____________